Facts About Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Substance abuse and mental health are closely connected, yet they’re often misunderstood. Those dealing with a mental health condition often also deal with addiction and vice versa. Because of this situation, called a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder, people need thorough treatment and understanding.

In this blog, we’ll explore important facts about substance abuse and mental health, shed light on common misconceptions, and explain why integrated treatment is essential for recovery.

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Often Go Hand in Hand

Studies show that nearly 50% of people with a substance abuse disorder also have a mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. Even though this often happens, it does not suggest that one problem causes the other.

Sometimes, an individual may use drugs or alcohol as a way to deal with their mental health problem. It is possible that substance use will make those symptoms worse and lead to a hard-to-stop circle that can be overcome only through professional therapy.

2. What is Substance Abuse Disorder?

Substance abuse disorder is a medical condition characterized by the uncontrollable use of drugs or alcohol despite negative consequences. It takes over the brain and behavior, so it becomes tough for people to quit smoking when they try.
Symptoms that people may notice are:

• Strong cravings
• Having trouble not using
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Stepping away from group events
• Doing dangerous things because of substance use

Substance abuse can impact every aspect of a person’s life—from their physical health to their relationships and emotional well-being.

3. Mental Health Disorders are Rightfully Considered Medical Issues

There is nothing weak or wrong about having a mental illness. They exist as real medical conditions that may change someone’s mood, thoughts and actions. Just as with any health problem, these need to be handled by trained professionals.


Common mental health disorders that often co-occur with substance abuse include:

• Depression
• Anxiety Disorders
• Bipolar Disorder
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health disorder.
• Schizophrenia

When mental health treatment is lacking, mental health conditions can seriously decrease a person’s well-being and make them more likely to become involved in substance use.

4. A Lot of People Don’t get the Help they Need Because of Stigma.

Even though more is known about mental health, many people still feel ashamed to seek help. Because of shame, fear of being criticized or incorrect data, individuals are sometimes afraid to talk about what is going on with them.

This happens most often when someone is affected by both addiction and a mental health problem. For this reason, supportive, nonjudgmental mental health care is very important for people who want to start on a path to healing.

5. Getting Different Types of Treatment Together Helps People Heal

When someone is battling both substance abuse disorder and a mental health issue, treating one without the other often leads to relapse. Both problems are treated together and this method improves how well a patient recovers.


Dual diagnosis care is what we focus on at Palm Coast Treatment Solutions. We focus our process by:

• Meeting with a licensed therapeutic expert is the first recommendation.
• Evidence-based substance abuse treatment
• Taking medicine, when required
• Creating a plan to avoid relapse
• Receiving supportive family therapy

We want to address each person’s overall concerns to ensure they live a purposeful, healthy life.

6. Acting Early has a Big Impact.

Earlier treatment increases a person’s chances of getting better. If someone notices changes in the person’s mood, reduces socializing, shows regular drug or alcohol use, or can’t keep up at work or school, those changes should prompt people to act.

When someone you know or you start to experience signs of mental illness or addiction, don’t hesitate to act. Having the support of experts at Palm Coast Treatment Solutions can improve your situation.

7. The Best Substance Abuse Treatment Centers Focus on Compassionate Care

The best substance abuse treatment centers provide more than detox; they offer compassionate, comprehensive care that respects each person’s unique story. All people recover in their own ways. A good care plan involves patience, assistance, and a personal treatment approach for the body and the mind.

Here at Palm Coast Treatment Solutions, we support clients by offering safety and a healing atmosphere that encourages them to recover and move ahead.

Don’t Wait to Begin Your Recovery

Understanding the connection between substance abuse and mental health is the first step in breaking the cycle. Help is always available if you or someone you care about is confused or struggling with drugs or alcohol. Recovery can happen.
To talk to a professional and learn more about our programs, call (386) 284-4151 today. If you require treatment for addiction or mental health or both, we’re here to help you through it all.