Legacy Healing Center Blog

The Connection Between Mental Health Disorders and Addiction

Until recently, it was thought that there was no connection between substance abused and mental health disorders. In fact, it’s only recently that it was determined that addiction is a disease instead of a decision. The reality is that your mental health can have a direct impact on addiction. When you decide to come to Legacy Healing Center, we can collaborate with you to craft a plan that can help address both your mental health and issues with addiction; referred to as dual diagnosis.

Click here to speak with a treatment specialist today or call us anytime 24/7 at (888) 534-2295

Why Mental Health Conditions Frequently Co-Occur with Substance Abuse

Unfortunately, there is still a negative stigma that is still associated with mental health issues. Many people view a mental health issue as something that they should be embarrassed by, which makes them hesitant to draw attention to the problem.

Instead of working with a doctor to address their mental health, they turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate. The problem with this approach is that substance abuse only exacerbates the problem. 

Although you may feel happy and carefree during the time you are under the influence of your drug or drink of choice, when you come down from that influence, you will likely feel worse than you did before, which continues to make the problem worse.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Stats

Did you know approximately one in four people that struggle with substance abuse also deal with an issue with their mental health? Here are some startling statistics which demonstrates the need to engage in dual diagnosis treatment:

• Approximately 4% of people received treatment for only their addiction and not their mental health disorder
• Roughly 12% of people don’t pursue treatment because they were afraid that their neighbors would have a negative opinion of them
• 10% of people didn’t seek treatment because they had concerns regarding confidentiality
• Just under 24% of people did not engage in a treatment program because they weren’t sure where to look for help

Mental Health Conditions That Frequently Coincide with Substance Use Disorder

Several mental health conditions could coincide with an issue with substance abuse. Some examples include:

• Personality disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Schizophrenia

Any one of these conditions could be potentially crippling on any aspect of your life when they are not treated. However, it’s important to remember that you can go on to live relatively everyday life with proper care and management.

The Importance of Treating Mental Health in Addiction Treatment

At Legacy Healing, we believe that the only way to overcome your addiction is by also addressing any mental health concerns, which is why we offer dual diagnosis treatment. We provide our clients with the opportunity to enroll in an inpatient or outpatient program specifically tailored to their needs. The benefits of treating both your mental health issues and struggles with addiction are undeniable. A few advantages include:

• A healthier and more successful life
• A better understanding of how your mental health can impact your addiction
• Better relationships with your friends and family

Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Legacy Healing Center

As authorities in mental health and substance abuse, the Legacy Healing center team understands the tremendous benefits of providing our clients with dual diagnosis treatment. If you’re interested in learning about our addiction treatment programs or more about a dual diagnosis, please reach out to one of our recovery specialists. They can help you begin putting together a personalized treatment plan that will help you recognize your goals for sobriety and improved mental health. Please reach out to us today at 888.534.2295.