DeRoma: The connection between addiction and mental health

Brad DeRoma, LISAC, CCTP

Submitted photo

Substance use disorder and mental illness are often closely intertwined, with a significant portion of individuals experiencing both conditions. During Mental Illness Awareness Week, Oct. 6 to 12, it’s important to explore how these two conditions often overlap.

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 9.5 million adults in the U.S. experienced both a mental illness and a substance use disorder in the previous year​. Further data shows that nearly 50% of individuals with a severe mental illness — including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression — will develop a substance use disorder at some point in their lives. Mental health and addiction are deeply interconnected, with one often influencing the other in a complex interplay of factors.

For individuals in recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol, addressing underlying mental health issues is essential for achieving lasting sobriety and overall well-being.

Some mental health conditions are more likely to co-occur with substance use disorders. For example, mood disorders like depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder frequently affect individuals with substance-related issues. Additionally, those with serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia have an increased likelihood of developing alcohol and drug dependencies. In fact, approximately one in four people with a serious mental illness also have a co-occurring substance use disorder​.

Shared risk factors

The high comorbidity rate between mental illness and substance use disorders can be traced to several shared risk factors. These include genetic predisposition, environmental influences like trauma, and neurochemical changes in the brain. Adolescence, in particular, is a vulnerable period, as both mental illnesses and substance use disorders tend to emerge during this time.

Early drug use increases the likelihood of developing both mental illness and substance use disorder. Since girls tend to report higher levels of mental health issues and face a greater burden of psychosocial risk factors compared to boys, they may need more comprehensive treatment interventions.

The connection between more severe drug problems and mental health issues underlines the importance of examining this relationship in treatment. A multidisciplinary approach that addresses co-occurring problems simultaneously could be the most effective treatment option for many young people struggling with drug-related issues.

Why early intervention is important

Early intervention is essential for preventing the escalation of co-occurring disorders, particularly in adolescents who are highly vulnerable to developing both mental health and substance use issues.

Data from the National Institute of Mental Health suggests that individuals who receive mental health treatment early in life are less likely to develop substance use disorders later on​. Public health initiatives that focus on early screening and reducing the stigma associated with both mental health and addiction can improve access to care.

By raising awareness and providing education, particularly in schools and community settings, more individuals can be reached before their conditions worsen.

During Mental Illness Awareness Week, it is crucial to continue efforts to raise awareness, reduce stigma and advocate for comprehensive treatment approaches. By doing so, we can make strides toward improving outcomes for individuals facing both mental health challenges and addiction.

Tips for mental well-being

Maintaining mental well-being is crucial for individuals in recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. By focusing on self-care, seeking support and using healthy coping strategies, they can nurture their mental health and improve their overall quality of life.

Therapy and counseling, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, provide essential support, helping individuals address underlying issues and develop healthier thought patterns.

Mindfulness and meditation promote relaxation, stress reduction and emotional regulation through techniques like deep breathing and guided meditation, which aid in managing cravings and triggers.

Regular exercise benefits both physical and mental health, releasing endorphins and reducing stress, anxiety and depression.

Building a supportive network of friends, family, peers and professionals is also key, fostering connections that offer encouragement and accountability.

Practicing self-care through activities like reading, spending time in nature or pursuing hobbies can recharge the mind and body.

Finally, setting boundaries and managing stress with time management and assertive communication helps protect well-being and build resilience throughout the recovery journey.

Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental illness, promote awareness and support each other on the path to healing and wholeness.

Editor’s note: Brad DeRoma, LISAC, CCTP is clinical lead at Scottsdale Recovery Center. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.