Your body builds a tolerance to alcohol and drugs. You need to take more so that you can feel the effect of the substance. Eventually, you will consume large amounts which can cause physical or psychological harm.

If you stop taking the drug, you will experience withdrawal symptoms, which can also include severe depression or anxiety. For this reason, you should seek help at a treatment center when going through drug and alcohol detox.

Depression can occur when you feel guilty each time you take the drug or drink too much alcohol. The substance may make you feel better, but when you come down off the high, you could go through a period of extreme low.

Relapse can occur if you deal with the addiction but do not address your depression. You could be clean for a few days. However, if you suddenly feel down again, you may turn to alcohol or drugs to relieve the depression.

This is the most common form of depression, characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. MDD can co-occur with addiction as individuals may turn to substances to self-medicate or cope with their depressive symptoms.

A milder but long-lasting form of depression that lasts for at least two years. People with dysthymia may also struggle with addiction, using substances to alleviate their chronic low mood or emotional numbness.

Formerly known as manic-depressive illness, this disorder involves episodes of depression and mania (extremely high energy and elevated mood). During depressive episodes, individuals with bipolar disorder might use substances to self-medicate, while during manic episodes, they may engage in risky behaviors, including substance abuse.

A type of depression that occurs during specific seasons, usually winter. SAD can co-occur with addiction, as people may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with feelings of sadness, lethargy, and social withdrawal during the affected season.

A type of depression that affects some women after childbirth, marked by intense sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. Women with postpartum depression may be at risk for developing substance use disorders, particularly if they use drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms.

A severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes significant emotional and physical symptoms before menstruation. Women with PMDD may use substances to manage mood swings, irritability, and other symptoms, increasing the risk of addiction.

A subtype of depression characterized by mood reactivity, increased appetite and sleep, and sensitivity to rejection. People with atypical depression may be more prone to addiction due to their sensitivity to emotional pain and attempts to self-medicate.

Co-occurring disorders develop because individuals with depression may use substances to escape or numb their emotional pain. Additionally, substance abuse can lead to changes in brain chemistry that contribute to major depression symptoms, creating a cycle of mental health problems and addiction. It is important for individuals struggling with both conditions to receive integrated treatment that addresses both depression and addiction simultaneously.

In dual diagnosis treatment, medications may be prescribed to manage both substance abuse and depression. Common medications for depression include:

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft), which increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood.Serotonin-Norepinephrine
• Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), which work by increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine levels.
• Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) are older classes of antidepressants that may be used in some cases.

For substance use disorders, medications may include:

• Methadone or buprenorphine for opioid addiction, which help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
• Naltrexone for alcohol or opioid addiction, which blocks the effects of these substances and reduces cravings.
• Disulfiram (Antabuse) for alcohol addiction, which causes unpleasant side effects if alcohol is consumed, discouraging its use.

Various therapies can help individuals overcome substance abuse and depression, including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns, beliefs, and behaviors that contribute to depression and substance abuse.

Group Therapy: Participating in group therapy sessions can provide individuals with a supportive environment where they can share experiences, learn from others, and develop healthy coping strategies.

Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help individuals manage stress, reduce cravings, and improve overall mental well-being.

There are different forms of dual diagnosis treatment programs available, including:

Residential Addiction Treatment Illinois: At residential treatment centers you’ll receive 24/7 care and support, typically lasting between 30 to 90 days. Patients live in a structured environment with access to medical supervision, therapy, and medication management.

Partial Hospitalization Treatment (PHP): PHP offers intensive mental health and depression treatment for several hours a day in a hospital or clinic setting while allowing patients to return home in the evenings. This program can typically last from two to six weeks.

Outpatient Treatment: This flexible program involves attending therapy sessions at a treatment facility while living at home. It typically lasts for several months, depending on individual needs.

Each program has its unique environment and level of care. Inpatient treatment provides the most structured setting, while outpatient treatment allows for greater flexibility. Challenges faced in these programs may include managing withdrawal symptoms, developing new coping skills, and addressing any underlying issues contributing to the co-occurring disorders.