There Has Been Some Debate About Whether Treating Severe Depression Solves Depression And Addiction Or Vice Versa
In this article, the author presents treatments available today. These modalities are grounded on theories that can assist in the recovery of a person with depressive states.
Methods and techniques in the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders are used in conjunction with other treatment modalities. A synergistic effect of holistic control of the state has a favorable prognosis.
Addiction Vs Substance Abuse
The term addiction often brings drug and alcohol abuse to mind, but substance abuse and addiction arent the same. A person can abuse a substance or engage in harmful behavior without developing an addiction.
In addition, not all addictions involve drugs or alcohol. People can also be addicted to behaviors or activities, such as gambling, shopping, sex, or playing video games.
Substance abuse can certainly lead to addiction, which is why preventing substance abuse is important. You may not be aware that youre at high risk for addiction until after youve started abusing drugs or alcohol.
Types Of Therapy Used To Treat Addiction
Therapy is one of the most effective methods proven to treat addiction. Different types of therapy work well for each individual and their addiction, so its important to find the best fit for you.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one method commonly used to treat addiction, according to Rosenblatt. CBT looks at how our thoughts impact our feelings, which impact our behaviors, she says. So if we want to change our behavior specific to addiction, we can work with a CBT therapist to identify thoughts or feelings that drive these addictive behaviors, and learn skills to break this thoughts feelings actions chain of events.
CBT is often done through individual therapy, where you frequently meet with a therapist one-on-one. Group therapy is also a great option for those struggling with addiction. Facilitated by a therapist or experienced leader, group therapy brings together several people working to recover from similar addictions. It is a supportive environment that works well on its own or in tandem with individual therapy.
Both individual and group therapy are proven to be effective treatment methods in helping to heal addiction. Consult a doctor or therapist to find what type of therapy works best for you.
You May Like: How Much Does Addiction Counselors Make
What Is The Best Approach
Several studies suggest, however, that the combination of an antidepressant and psychotherapy is the best approach, because of the complex mix of causes of mood disorders like depression.
While psychotherapy is its own professional field, other professionals offer this modality as well, including psychiatrists and clinical psychologists, substance abuse counselors, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, social workers, and psychiatric nurses.
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
Common Types Of Substance Addiction
Substance abuse impacts the lives of millions of Americans every year and can have life-threatening consequences. Approximately 19.3 million people have a substance abuse disorder and 14.5 million have an alcohol use disorder, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The most common substances abused include alcohol, tobacco, opioids, cocaine, marijuana, and prescription drugs.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders , which psychologists use to diagnose mental illnesses, includes several addictive disorders. These include several substance addictions, which should be taken seriously.
Stressful times can trigger an increased dependence on substances. COVID-19 is an example of one event causing individuals to increase their reliance on addiction. We want to numb ourselves when dealing with challenging situations or emotions, even if this will harm us long-term.
Weve unfortunately seen a rise in substance use disorders since the pandemic, as people tried to cope with the emotional stress and uncertainty that they felt during COVID-19, Rosenblatt says. As of only June 2020, the CDC reported a 13% increase in substance use in American adults, in both increased frequency and quantity of the substance.
Don’t Miss: Am I An Addict Test
Refer Patients To Outside Support Groups
There are a variety of outside resources available to those recovering from addiction that are beneficial when combined with counseling treatment. As a counselor, referring patients to programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous can add another level of outside support.
These community based programs provide an additional layer of accountability to those seeking rehabilitation, and by attending meetings, patients will be surrounded by individuals with similar backgrounds, and can further share their stories, wisdom, and struggles in a non-judgmental environment.
The role of the counselor in addiction treatment involves far more than just talking an addict through treatment. Counselors have to be highly empathetic people, who have a passion for building relationships with their patients. From providing a safe space for patients to openly talk about their struggles with addiction, to guiding family members through the recovery process, to addressing plans to avoid relapse, counselors play an important role in addiction recovery.
The demand for substance abuse counselors is on the steady incline, with a projected ten year growth of 31 percent. Students who earn their Masters Degree in Counseling from Wake Forest University leave with skills necessary to help people in their community heal and recover from addiction.
Recommended Reading
Work Environment About This Section
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors held about 351,000 jobs in 2021. The largest employers of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors were as follows:
| Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers | 19% |
| Government | 8 |
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors work in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, correctional facilities, and hospitals. Some addiction counselors work in residential treatment centers, where clients live in the facility during their recovery.
Although rewarding, the work of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is often stressful. Many counselors have large workloads and do not always have enough resources to meet the demand for their services. In addition, counselors may have to intervene in crisis situations or work with agitated clients.
Don’t Miss: How Many People Are Drug Addicts
Seeing The Chance For Change
With ownership, therapy can help you rewrite your interpretation of life. Often, we grow up mislabeling experiences or cant step outside of rigid interpretations to assess things accurately. Hopelessness and helplessness are eroded as addiction is named, and depression is described as symptomatic of becoming stuck, frustrated, overlooked, abused or whatever other truth your story holds.
Change is only afforded to those who acknowledge its possibility. Therapy can provide the vehicle for change in addictions that may need intensive support, accountability and expert knowledge.
Learning And Reworking The Patterns Of The Past
Once we have named the perspectives and patterns of the past, change becomes and option that we can work on. Relationship-wise and emotionally, we build ways to cope with the world. These are usually very effective in our formative years and learned for good reason.
However, as we grow and develop, these strategies do not fit our widening experience. We find ourselves with limited, rigid tools in a vast world. Therapy can help us learn new ways of engaging emotions and relationships that are flexible while maintaining your self-respect.
As new coping methods are built, life becomes more manageable, longings can be fulfilled in healthy ways, and depression and addiction can become distant memories.
Don’t Miss: How To Stop Being Addicted To Technology
Depression And Addiction Treatment Centers
Many factors play a role in deciding on a treatment for depression. Like many other mental health conditions, depression can be managed so individuals go on to live a normal life. Options for treating this condition range from medications and psychotherapy to brain intervention therapies.
Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.
Depression Medications
Antidepressants are designed to improve the way the brain processes various chemicals that control an individuals mood. Finding a medication that works best for an individuals symptoms and has the least amount of side effects can take some time. A doctor may even recommend combining two medications for a short time to increase effectiveness.
Medication is often effective in helping those with depression. Some of the most commonly prescribed Antidepressants may include:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
- Atypical Antidepressants
- Tricyclic Antidepressants
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
As with many other prescription medications, Antidepressants may be addictive. If you are suffering from co-occurring depression and addiction, make sure your doctor knows. He or she can work with you to find the right treatment plan, even if that means avoiding pharmaceutical medications. All parts of your health are important, including your ability to stay sober as you heal from past hurts from addiction and depression.
Online Addiction Counseling and Mental Health Support
David Hampton
How Can I Start Therapy In New York
Start your search for a great therapist in New York on Zencare. First, consider any logistic limitations, like how far you are willing to travel outside of New York or if you are open to online sessions with a local provider. Also consider how much your therapy budget is, and when you are available for therapy. Then, make a list of priorities for your ideal therapist: do they match your identity, or have expertise in a specific area like anxiety or depression? There is no one reason to start therapy many individuals in New Yorkgo see a therapist when they need help to move forward through a difficult time, cope with symptoms of a mental illness such as a mood disorder, navigate life transitions, process relationship difficulties or improve their behavioral health. Use your priorities to filter on Zencare by insurance, speciality, and availability. Look through a few provider profiles to find the therapist you might click with, watch their introductory videos, and book a free call to find a great personal fit!
Also Check: How To Not Be Addicted To Your Phone
+ Happy & Healed Cbt Patients
I am a working professional and its tough to attend physio sessions regularly. After suffering from a backache for around three years, my friend suggested that I try Mantra Care for their physiotherapy services. I was able to get completely back pain relief, after taking a completely online course. Thanks to my PT at MantraCare for this, who conducted sessions whenever I needed them.
Kevin,1 year on MantraCare
Depression & Substance Abuse
Research has revealed that many of the factors that contribute to depression also play a part in substance use disorders. This is known as co-occurring disorders, or a dual diagnosis. Depression and addiction frequently involve:
- Imbalances in brain chemistry.
- Family history.
In addition, the physical and psychological effects of addiction may mask the signs of depression or worsen the symptoms of this psychiatric illness.
Recommended Reading: Why Do People Get Addicted To Drugs
Speak To An Online Psychotherapist Via Skype
Talk to a therapist online now for anxiety and depression.
Learn how to overcome anxiety or depression. Talk with a Therapist Online through Skype for highly effective online treatment for Depression and Anxiety, Social Anxiety Disorder and Agoraphobia, Addictions, PTSD and Traumatic Stress or any other emotional problems not requiring medical treatment. Email me to learn more about this online counseling service and to arrange for an online therapy session with me.
Most of my clients have tried medications and conventional talk therapy / counseling but have not received the relief they want. This is understandable, because mediations and indirect talking about your emotions is not sufficient to change the underlying habitual process that creates and feeds anxiety and depression. You need to address these directly, and this is the focus of Mindfulness Therapy, the approach that I favor and find to be most effective for producing lasting change.
I specialize in mindfulness therapy. Mindfulness is an extremely effective way of changing habits. It allows you to develop a conscious and compassionate relationship with your emotions and with your thoughts. And this is essential. You have to learn how to sit with your emotions and thoughts without becoming identified with them and without becoming reactive. If you can do that then you stop feeding those habits, basically.
Getting Help For Depression & Co
Living with a family member or spouse who is in a depressive episode can be both painful and stressful. Its natural for loved ones to feel helpless, frustrated, and even emotionally drained by their experiences dealing with depression. Approaching a relative or friend about depression and substance abuse is very hard, but it can also prevent serious harm to the individual.
Without help, its likely that the addictive disorder and the depressionboth chronic illnesseswill continue to get worse until the individual becomes severely ill. Its even possible that an intervention by loved ones may help to prevent a suicide attempt and save the individuals life.
People struggling with depression often feel isolated, profoundly lonely, and powerless. Offering support and practical solutions could make an enormous difference in the way a depressed person feels about the future.
Mental health professionals can be valuable partners in the process of intervening on behalf of someone who has depression. With the guidance of a therapist, families can learn about the facts behind depression and develop a better understanding of how to relate to someone who has this disorder.
If substance abuse is a factor, a therapist or intervention specialist can provide guidelines on how to effectively get help for someone with depression.
Also Check: How To Treat Pot Addiction
How Do I Find An Affordable Therapist In New York
Therapists located in New York offer session fees from < $100/session. To find a therapist who meets your budget, filter by session fee on Zencare.Many therapists offer a sliding scale, or a range of session fees based on financial need to clients who would not otherwise be able to afford typical therapy rates in New York. If you are struggling to pay for therapy, consider asking for a sliding scale, looking for an in-network therapist, or seeking services through a local agency, college counseling center, or hospital.
Meet The Best Addiction Therapists
MantraCare psychologists help you counter addiction through a combination of positive conversations, exercises, and meditations. Our addiction therapy services are better than traditional face-to-face counseling in multiple ways:
- Over 5,000 counselors & therapists with expertise in addiction and other areas
- All counselors are licensed, trained, accredited, and highly experienced
- Match with an available counselor who is the best fit for your addiction needs
- Unlimited private one on one communication with your therapist
- Gain access to constructive, educational group webinars on addiction
Don’t Miss: How Do I Give Up My Sugar Addiction
How Our Helpline Works
For those seeking addiction treatment for themselves or a loved one, the PsychGuides.com helpline is a private and convenient solution.
We are standing by 24/7 to discuss your treatment options. Our representatives work solely for AAC and will discuss whether an AAC facility may be an option for you.
Our helpline is offered at no cost to you and with no obligation to enter into treatment. Neither PsychGuides.com nor AAC receives any commission or other fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a visitor may ultimately choose.
For more information on AACs commitment to ethical marketing and treatment practices, or to learn more about how to select a treatment provider, visit our About AAC page.
If you wish to explore additional treatment options or connect with a specific rehab center, you can browse top-rated listings or visit SAMHSA.
What Substance Abuse Behavioral Disorder And Mental Health Counselors Do About This Section
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors advise people on a range of issues, such as those relating to alcoholism, addictions, or depression. They provide support, including for prevention, to help clients recover from addiction, modify problem behaviors, or improve mental health.
You May Like: Is Methadone Free To Addicts
Chronic Disease & Illness
The definition of a chronic disease is one that lasts three months or longer and interferes with your daily life. Depression and anxiety are very common for people with chronic illness, and they can actually make the symptoms of disease worse. For example, 40% of people with diabetes also suffer from depression. While its unclear what might be causation and what might be correlation in cases like this, we do know that successfully treating depression can help with effectively treating diabetes.And some behavioral health problems, such as depression or anxiety, can actually be caused by the diseases themselves. If you are living with a chronic disease, there are many options to treat the associated mental and emotional stressors that accompany it.
While working with a clinical health provider who understands chronic illness, you can design a holistic treatment plan to meet your specific needs, including such things as nutritional counseling, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and many other integrative therapies. You can regain a sense of control and improve your quality of life. At Orange County Health Psychologists, we have specially trained providers who can help you start your journey to a better quality of life.
Types Of Treatment For Addiction
There are many different types of addiction treatment programs for people who are struggling with alcohol use disorder or drug addiction. These are some of the most common types of treatment for addiction:
Although there are many treatment options to choose from, the best type of addiction treatment for an individual will depend on the severity of the addiction, treatment history, financial ability, and other personal circumstances. A doctor, therapist, or licensed addiction treatment professional can help you determine a treatment plan that is right for you.
Don’t Miss: How Do Meth Addicts Act
