Addiction and suicide are two serious issues that can at times be heavily connected. Raising awareness of this sobering fact is key in understanding how one can influence the other, how to best empower individuals to succeed in their recovery journey, and how to ultimately preserve life.
An addiction can present itself in the form of a substance use disorder (SUD) or a different unhealthy habit that a person struggles to break. Usually, addictions form over time, and in the case of a SUD, an individual can feel as if they need to take more of the substance to achieve the same desired effects (the further in they are). In this article, we’ll explore the implications that an addiction can have on a person’s mood and outlook on life, the relationship between depression and suicidal thoughts, and how those who are struggling can get help.
How Can An Addiction Worsen Depression?
Addictions can have adverse effects on an individual’s depression in multiple ways. With substance use disorder, brain chemistry and function may be altered over time, impacting decision-making and resulting in an imbalance of the natural chemicals that stimulate feelings of happiness. Feelings of hopelessness or being trapped in the addiction can also contribute to a chronically depressed state. When an individual comes to the realization that they’ve been dealing with a SUD and is still having difficulty breaking from it, this can be a scary and hopeless feeling for them to experience. However, it’s crucial for these individuals to know that hope does exist and to actively seek it out.
Severe addictions may also result in financial issues for an affected individual, furthering their depressive symptoms. With a spiraling reliance on a substance or other habit, a person may see their income become more and more devoted to supporting their addiction, worsening the situation. Financial difficulties can also exacerbate any underlying mental health disorders, making it even more challenging for them to healthily cope with their depression.
The Link Between Depression and Suicide
In cases of suicide or whenever an individual begins having suicidal thoughts, severe depression is often a tragic precursor. As depression begins to take hold in an individual’s mind, they may feel as if the only way out of their despair is to take their own life.
Addictions can also worsen an individual’s depression even more by creating a cyclical habit that they’re stuck in. Depression can feed their addiction by making them feel as if they need to rely on their substance of choice to escape the despair, only to feel worse after coming down. It’s imperative that anyone who is dealing with an addiction, chronic depression, or both, is aware of the many resources available that can help them blaze a safe and healthy trail to recovery.
How to Get Professional Help for an Addiction or Depression
Multiple effective treatments exist to help individuals with addictions or depression live sober, happier lives. At a residential treatment facility or behavioral health center, medical professionals will supervise an individual’s recovery and provide treatments to mitigate any possible withdrawal effects, all within the context of a comprehensive recovery plan. This overall plan also factors in the mental health influences or root causes that led the individual to acquire an addiction, addressing these using separate treatments.
Many treatment centers also offer specific solutions to help individuals who are battling severe depression. Treatment options for depression may include prescription medications, outpatient therapy, or even inpatient hospitalization depending on what a mental health professional recommends. Depression treatment starts with an independent evaluation by a trained physician, followed by a carefully developed plan to help the individual.
Prescription Medications: Medications may be geared at treating either the underlying mental health disorder an individual faces, or may be prescribed to treat possible withdrawal symptoms from a substance. To treat depression, medications called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed. These medications work by adjusting chemical imbalances in the brain and boosting serotonin, a chemical that is believed to affect mood and other important healthy functions. When taken over time, SSRIs can assist by measurably improving a person’s mood and helping them reach a more positive mental state.
Withdrawal medications such as benzodiazepines may also be given temporarily to help an individual manage any unpleasant physical effects of substance use cessation (depending on the substance). The intake of these medications will be closely monitored by a doctor to ensure a safe journey away from substance use and into wellness.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs): Intensive outpatient programs are another treatment option available for both addiction and depression. These types of therapy are generally provided for those with only mild to moderate symptoms and who are able to still carry out their daily responsibilities. IOPs offer a wealth of different services, such as psychological and group therapy, medical guidance, and education and support resources.
Inpatient Programs: A stay in a residential treatment facility may be recommended if an individual’s addictive disorder or depression is severe enough. Inpatient programs provide more closely monitored medical care and help keep an individual safer, particularly if they are to the point of feeling suicidal or experiencing dangerous withdrawals from detoxification.
During an individual’s stay at a residential treatment facility, they will have access to group and solo therapies, as well as a professionally managed medication plan to further empower them in their recovery journey. Upon completion of an inpatient program, an individual may be transitioned to a partial hospitalization program (PHP) to help them slowly acclimate to normal life once again.
Getting help starts with making a phone call to a treatment facility in your area. At Alvarado Parkway Institute, we diligently serve the greater San Diego, California area, offering comprehensive solutions to help individuals who are struggling with substance use disorders or other types of mental health diagnoses. Call us today at 619-333-7050 to learn more about us and how we can help you.
