Rehab for Depression and Dual Diagnosis Issues | Brooks Healing Center
Amanda Stevens
People grappling with depression or addiction face significant challenges that can affect various aspects of their lives. When these two conditions co-occur, the impact can be even more devastating, as the symptoms of each disorder may exacerbate the other.
At Brooks Healing Center, we understand the complexities and unique needs of those struggling with depression and dual diagnosis issues. Through holistic care and evidence-based therapies, we aim to address the root causes of depression and addiction while equipping our clients with healthy coping skills and strategies and relevant life skills at our addiction and depression treatment center.
Table of Contents
Key Points
- Major Depressive Disorder is a severe mental health condition marked by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities, impacting an individual’s ability to function and diminishing quality of life.
- Over 21 million American adults are affected by depression – but nearly 49 percent of those with the condition do not receive treatment, highlighting a significant gap in care.
- Drug addiction can worsen depressive symptoms and complicate treatment, creating a cycle where substance use exacerbates depression and vice versa. Substances alter mood regulation and brain chemistry, making recovery more challenging.
- Brooks Healing Center offers specialized programs that address both depression and addiction simultaneously for you or a loved one. Treatment typically includes detoxification, residential care, and various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, group therapy, Experiential Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Brainspotting, and 12-Step Programs.
What Is Major Depressive Disorder?
Major Depressive Disorder, often referred to as clinical depression, is a serious mental health condition that significantly impacts how people feel, think, and behave.[1] It is not merely a case of “feeling down” or experiencing sadness – major depression is characterized by persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Unlike the typical fluctuations in mood that most people experience in response to life events, Major Depressive Disorder has a significant impact on a person’s ability to function in daily life. Symptoms of clinical depression are typically severe enough to interfere with a person’s work, relationships, and overall well-being, often leading to a diminished quality of life. Major Depressive Disorder is a pervasive mental health condition affecting more than 21 million American adults or about 8.4 percent of the US population over the age of 18 in a given year.[2] Despite its prevalence and impact on daily life, almost half of the adults with major depression – nearly 49 percent – are not receiving treatment, highlighting the need for better access to dual-diagnosis alcohol and depression care.
Drug Addiction and Interactions with Major Depressive Disorder
The interplay between depression and drug addiction is multifaceted, often creating a challenging cycle that exacerbates both conditions. When someone with depression uses substances, they may initially seek temporary relief from their depressive symptoms. However, drug use can significantly alter mood regulation, leading to a complex interaction between addiction and depression that can complicate your recovery: [3, 4]
- Symptoms worsening for both: Substance use can intensify the symptoms of depression. Depressants like alcohol may initially provide a sense of escape but can ultimately worsen feelings of sadness and hopelessness. This deepening of depressive symptoms can lead to an increased reliance on substances for relief, creating a vicious cycle where addiction and depression reinforce each other.
- Impaired judgment: Drug addiction often impairs judgment and decision-making, leading people to engage in risky behaviors or neglect self-care. This deterioration in functioning can exacerbate depressive symptoms, making it harder for them to maintain stability and adhere to treatment plans. The resulting strain on personal and social relationships further aggravates the depressive state.
- Altered neurochemistry: Substances can disrupt the brain’s natural chemistry, impacting neurotransmitters that regulate mood. For example, stimulant drugs might initially elevate mood but can cause severe crashes and heightened depressive states when their effects wear off. Similarly, the long-term use of certain substances can alter brain function, potentially leading to or worsening depressive disorders.
At Brooks Healing Center, our approach to managing these interactions involves comprehensive assessment, unique depression treatment programs, and personalized treatment plans that address elements of co-occurring disorders at the same time. Our clinicians work with you to put a plan into place that speaks to what you need and stays with you every step of the way.
Do Drugs Cause Depression (or Vice Versa?)
The relationship between substance abuse and depression can be complex. Depression can often lead to addiction as people seek relief from persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.[5] Substances like alcohol and drugs may provide temporary escape or numb emotional pain, which can lead to habitual use and, eventually, addiction. Conversely, addiction can also contribute to the development or worsening of depression. The chemicals in addictive substances can alter brain function and neurotransmitter balance, potentially triggering depressive symptoms.[6] Additionally, the negative consequences of addiction, such as financial problems and strained relationships, can further deepen feelings of despair and hopelessness. This cyclical interaction means that treating one condition without addressing the other may not be effective. Integrated treatment approaches that address both depression and addiction simultaneously are crucial for breaking this cycle and supporting long-term recovery.
What Are My Treatment Options in Tennessee for Major Depressive Disorder and Addiction?
At Brooks, people looking for depression treatment in Tennessee can access specialized treatment programs designed to address both conditions simultaneously. These programs typically begin with detoxification, an essential step in managing substance use disorders. Detox provides medical supervision and support to safely navigate withdrawal symptoms and prepare for further treatment that suits your individual needs. Following detox, residential treatment programs offer a structured, supportive environment for comprehensive care. These programs provide intensive therapy to help patients develop effective coping strategies and manage both mood disorders and addiction. Several evidence-based and holistic therapeutic approaches are used to tackle the dual challenges of mental health disorders and addiction. These modalities include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use and depression.
- Experiential Therapy: This therapy uses creative activities like art, music, and role-playing to explore and express emotions related to their struggles.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy: For those with a history of trauma, this approach acknowledges and addresses the effects of past trauma on current mental health and substance use issues.
- Brainspotting (BSP): BSP is a therapeutic technique that assists in processing and resolving trauma and emotional pain linked to your challenges.
- 12-Step Programs: These programs offer a structured recovery process through community support and adherence to recovery principles, often integrated into broader treatment plans to manage both addiction and depression effectively.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Depression and Substance Abuse Treatment
What are the symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder?
The symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder include persistent feelings of deep sadness or emptiness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, and significant changes in appetite or weight. Individuals may experience trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, fatigue, and a marked decrease in energy.
Concentration and decision-making can become impaired, and feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt may be prevalent. Additionally, recurrent thoughts of death or suicide are serious symptoms that warrant immediate attention. These symptoms must be present for at least two weeks and cause significant distress or impairment in daily functioning to meet the criteria.
What causes depression?
Major Depressive Disorder can arise from a combination of genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition plays a role, as depression can run in families, suggesting a hereditary component.
Biochemical factors include imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which are crucial for regulating mood. Environmental stressors, such as trauma, abuse, or significant life changes, can trigger or exacerbate depression. Psychological factors, such as negative thought patterns or unresolved emotional conflicts, also contribute to the development of depression. It is often a combination of these factors that leads to the onset of depression.
How long do dual-diagnosis treatment services typically last?
The duration of treatment varies widely depending on the severity of the addiction, the substance involved, the recommendations of the treatment team, and other factors. Typically, detoxification takes a few days to weeks, depending on the substance and withdrawal symptoms. Following detox, residential or inpatient treatment programs often last from 30 to 90 days, offering intensive care and therapy.
After residential treatment, outpatient programs or continued support through counseling and support groups may extend for several months or longer. Long-term recovery may involve ongoing participation in therapy and support groups, as addiction is considered a chronic condition that requires sustained management and engagement with a mental health professional.
Can addiction be cured?
While addiction may not be “cured” in the traditional sense, it can be effectively managed with ongoing treatment and support. The goal of treatment is to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety, manage cravings, and rebuild their lives.
Effective addiction treatment typically involves a combination of medical care, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support networks. Many people can lead fulfilling and productive lives by adhering to a comprehensive treatment plan and developing strategies to cope with triggers and stressors. Continued support and therapy are often necessary to sustain recovery and prevent relapse.
Sources
[1] National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Major Depression. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression on August 26, 2024
[2] ADAA. (2017). Facts & Statistics | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. Adaa.org. https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression/facts-statistics on August 26, 2024
[3] National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Substance use and co-occurring mental disorders. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/substance-use-and-mental-health on August 26, 2024
[4] Quello, S. B., Brady, K. T., & Sonne, S. C. (2005). Mood disorders and substance use disorder: a complex comorbidity. Science & Practice Perspectives, 3(1), 13–21. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2851027/ on August 26, 2024
[5] SAMHSA. (2023). Mental health and substance use co-occurring disorders. Www.samhsa.gov. https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/mental-health-substance-use-co-occurring-disorders on August 26, 2024
[6] NIDA. (2020). Drugs and the Brain. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drugs-brain on August 26, 2024