Examining The Connection Between Depression And Addiction

Relation Between Depression and Addiction

The National Institute on Drug Abuse provides data that indicates individuals with mood disorders, such as depression, are twice as likely to engage in substance abusing behaviors than those without a mood disorder, which drastically increase one’s risk for developing an addiction. There are many common and shared side effects that can present in individuals struggling with depression and/ or addiction. They can include, but are not limited to, any combination of the following examples:

• Irritability
• Weight fluctuations
• Physical aches and pains
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Diminished sense of self-worth
• Inability to concentrate on and/ or complete daily tasks
• Poor hygiene practices
• Suicidal ideations

There are a variety of contributing factors behind one’s development of depression, many of which overlap with those behind an individual’s susceptibility for developing addiction. Regarding both the development of addiction and depression, respectfully, these factors often include environmental, brain structure and chemistry, genetics, as well as situational factors. 

Treatment Considerations

A dual diagnosis is typically diagnosed to any individual that struggles with substance abuse/ addiction and another mental disorder/ illness, including depression. An individual that has been diagnosed with depression and substance use disorder should consider attending a specified treatment program designed to treat individuals with a dual diagnosis. Treating addiction and depression simultaneously is of utmost importance when it comes to setting oneself up for success regarding recovery. Dual diagnosis treatment programs utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities as well as medical interventions to create tailored treatment plans for each participant, which specifically consider the patient’s unique needs. 

Medications

A common component of treatment for depression includes medication. There are certain medications that can help alleviate some of the discomforts associated with detoxing from substance abuse, and some medications that are recommended to help reduce the intensity of one’s drug cravings, although medications are not typically the first course of treatment relied upon for individuals struggling from substance use disorder. There are, however some symptoms of depression that can be exacerbated with habitual substance abuse and/ or during the detox process that may be lessened with the correct medication. Common medications used to treat individuals with a dual diagnosis of depression and addiction fall in the SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) category and can include the following examples, provided by WebMD:

• Prozac (Fluoxetine)
• Zoloft (Sertraline)
• Celexa (Citalopram)
• Lexapro (Escitalopram)

Every individual is different and distinguishing the precise type of medication and/ or combination of medications and accurate dosage will require close monitoring and guidance from a qualified medical professional. In order to assure one’s safety, it is important to closely adhere to the directions provided by the prescribing medical professional when taking medication. There are many medications that may lead to dangerous consequences if an individual abruptly stops taking them. As such, if and when the time comes to discontinue a medication, it is imperative to follow the physician’s termination plan.

Further Information

Substance abuse and addiction can be incredibly dangerous.

If you or someone you know is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, please get help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. There is no reason to go through this alone. Please feel free to reach out to us for further information or with any questions regarding substance abuse or addiction.