6 Common Co-Occurring Addiction Disorders

When it comes to addiction and other mental health issues, the problems are often intertwined. Substance abuse and mental health disorders are often co-occurring and it’s estimated that over 8 million adults in the US have dual diagnoses. For those that are addicted, six out of 10 have at least one mental health disorder, which complicates treatment and compliance.

While science still isn’t sure about the reason for such an overlap with mental health and addiction, it’s believed that it’s a combination of genetic vulnerabilities, environment, learned behaviors, and a result of trauma.

If you’re suffering from both a mental health disorder and a substance abuse issue, it’s time to get help. Call 888-646-0635Who Answers? today to talk to someone about finding the right treatment options for you.

Schizophrenia

For those with schizophrenia, there’s a strong correlation with substance abuse disorders. Nearly half of all of those diagnosed with schizophrenia will have a problem with either drug or alcohol addiction at some point in their life.

Marijuana, alcohol, and cocaine are the most common drugs abused by this cohort. Although an integrated treatment approach is always recommended, those with both schizophrenia and addiction tend to show a poor clinical outcome.

Bipolar Disorder

Mood disorders and addiction often go hand in hand.

Like other mood disorders, those with bipolar disorder are more likely to struggle with addiction. For those with bipolar I disorder, over 60 percent will have an addiction to drugs or alcohol, while for those with bipolar 2 disorder, there’s a 48 percent lifetime prevalence. For those with both substance abuse issues and bipolar, there’s a decrease in prognosis, as these two disorders exasperate each other.

Anxiety and Panic Disorders

Anxiety and panic disorders are one of the most common mental health diagnosis and they, too, have a higher prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse then the general public. Even though drugs and alcohol typically make anxiety worse, these individuals are two to three times more likely to have a substance abuse issue than others.

PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD, is an extreme anxiety and panic disorder caused after a significant period of trauma. Common in the victims of violent crimes, soldiers, and those who have been abused, those with PTSD have a high prevalence of substance abuse and addiction.

Up to 35 percent of men and 27 percent of women diagnosed with PTSD also meet the criteria for substance dependence. While many with PTSD turn to drugs to find relief from their symptoms, the short term fix ends up causing more long term problems, worsening the PTSD symptoms.

Antisocial Personality Disorder

For those with antisocial personality disorder, alcohol tends to be the drug of choice. These individuals are 21 more times likely to be an alcoholic than their peers, tend to have more alcohol related problems, and are more likely to become aggressive when drinking.

Borderline Personality Disorder

When it comes to personality disorders, and specifically borderline personality disorder, there’s a correlation with mental health and addiction. At any given time, 14 percent of those with borderline personality disorder are abusing substances, and across the lifetime, it may be as high as 72 percent. Men are more likely than women to be abusing drugs, and there seems to be a specific link to prescription pain pill abuse.

Do You Have a Dual Diagnosis?

If you’re suffering from both a mental health diagnosis and addiction to drugs or alcohol, don’t wait any longer to seek help. Call 888-646-0635Who Answers? today to learn about your treatment options.

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