Mental Health and Addiction

5 Proven Reasons Mental Health and Addiction Are Linked

InnerBalance Health Center

October 28, 2019

I. Introduction to Mental Health and Addiction

We live in an era where discussions about mental health and addiction are no longer taboo. In fact, they’ve become an essential part of our societal discourse, helping us understand the human condition better. One institution dedicated to this cause is the InnerBalance Health Center in Loveland, Colorado. As experts in the field, they believe in the importance of shedding light on the link between mental health and addiction. This article explores the deep connections between these two pervasive issues, helping to dispel myths and provide knowledge. Here, we discuss five scientifically-proven reasons mental health and addiction are intricately intertwined.

Mental Health and Addiction

II. Understanding Mental Health and Addiction

Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being, affecting how we think, feel, and act. It influences our capacity to cope with stress, work productively, and contribute to our communities. On the other hand, addiction is a chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. It’s not just about drugs or alcohol; addiction extends to behaviors like gambling, eating, or even using the internet. Both mental health and addiction issues are significantly prevalent, with millions affected worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 4 people globally will be affected by a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives.

III. The Science Behind the Link of Mental Health and Addiction

The correlation between mental health and addiction is not coincidental but is deeply rooted in our brain’s biology. Our brains produce various chemicals that affect mood and emotions, and any imbalance can lead to mental health issues or addiction. For instance, dopamine, often referred to as the ‘feel-good’ chemical, plays a significant role in pleasure, reward, and addiction. Genetics, too, play a crucial role in the onset of both mental health issues and addictive behaviors. Certain genetic predispositions can make an individual more susceptible to these problems. Moreover, the self-medication theory proposes that some people may use substances to cope with their mental health symptoms, thereby forming a vicious cycle.

IV. 5 Proven Reasons Why Mental Health and Addiction are Linked

1. Dual Diagnosis: It’s common for mental health conditions and substance use disorders to coexist. This situation is known as dual diagnosis. Conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders often exist concurrently with addiction. For example, a person suffering from social anxiety might turn to alcohol to ease their fears about social interactions. Over time, this can lead to a reliance on alcohol to manage their symptoms, culminating in addiction. Consequently, the addiction exacerbates their mental health condition, perpetuating a vicious cycle.

Mental Health and Addiction - Dual Diagnosis

2. Escapism: Mental health disorders can be overwhelming, causing distress, confusion, and fear. Many individuals may feel trapped by their mental health symptoms, leading them to seek escape. They may turn to drugs, alcohol, or other addictive behaviors to escape from their troubling thoughts and feelings. Although these substances may provide a temporary sense of relief, they often worsen the original mental health issues over time and can lead to addiction.

3. Trauma: Traumatic experiences such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, violence, loss of a loved one, or even exposure to a traumatic event can significantly impact a person’s mental health. These experiences can lead to conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety. Often, individuals may use drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism to numb their pain or forget their traumatic experiences. Unfortunately, this self-medication can result in a physical and psychological dependence on these substances, leading to addiction.

4. Brain changes: Prolonged substance abuse can alter the brain’s chemical balance and structure. These changes can exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions or contribute to the development of new ones. For instance, excessive and prolonged alcohol use can deplete serotonin levels in the brain – a chemical that helps regulate mood. Lower serotonin levels are associated with depressive symptoms. Moreover, some drugs can cause a surge of dopamine, the brain’s reward chemical. Over time, the brain may stop producing dopamine on its own, leading to withdrawal symptoms and a need for the drug to feel “normal,” potentially triggering mental health disorders.

5. Social Isolation: Many individuals with mental health conditions experience feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can significantly impact their mental well-being. Feelings of isolation may lead individuals to seek comfort or solace in drugs or alcohol. The temporary relief provided by these substances can lead to repeated use and, eventually, addiction. As the addiction progresses, it can further isolate individuals from their social supports, exacerbating their mental health conditions and making recovery more challenging.

V. How InnerBalance Health Center Helps

Mental Health and Addiction - Social Isolation

At InnerBalance Health Center, we believe in a holistic approach to address the complex link between mental health and addiction. We integrate medical treatment with nutritional therapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our testimonials from past patients speak volumes about our commitment to their well-being and recovery. We are proud to offer a comprehensive array of services tailored to the individual’s needs. From residential treatment to outpatient services, our dedicated team of professionals is here to provide support every step of the way. We recognize that understanding and addressing the link between mental health and addiction is critical to effective treatment and long-term recovery.

VI. In Conclusion

As we’ve explored, mental health and addiction are deeply connected, impacting countless lives worldwide. By understanding the link between these two issues, we can approach treatment more holistically and compassionately. Acknowledging the connection is the first step towards effective treatment and recovery. Remember, help is available, and recovery is possible, no matter how dire the situation may seem. At InnerBalance Health Center, we are committed to providing the necessary support and treatment to those struggling with mental health and addiction. Our primary mission is to guide individuals on their journey to recovery, one step at a time.

VII. A Call to Action with Mental Health and Addiction

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health and addiction issues, don’t hesitate to seek help. Understand that you’re not alone in this journey, and there’s professional help available. Reach out to us at InnerBalance Health Center. Our compassionate team of experts is ready to assist you on your path to recovery. Take that crucial first step towards reclaiming your life. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you achieve inner balance and wellness.

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Leaving Drug and Alcohol Addiction for Good - Joe Eisele, InnerBalance Health Center Loveland, CO

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the best addiction treatment center offer Biochemical Repair & Restoration and how do they define Biochemical Restoration?

At InnerBalance Health Center, we strive to get the best addiction treatment to gain a better understanding of the psychological effects of addiction to drugs and/or alcohol.. As a component of our holistic addiction treatment process, we understand that there are certain biochemical imbalances that can make a person more prone to the addictive cycle.

By restoring chemical balance, a person is much more capable of overcoming their addiction. InnerBalance Health Center offers and is one of the foremost leaders in treating addictions using biochemical repair & restoration. We believe that biochemical imbalances can be pre-existing, or can come as a result of repeated drug and alcohol use over time. Learn more specifics about our holistic treatment here.

Is the staff available 24/7?

Yes, at InnerBalance Health Center clients have access to a staff member 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Does the treatment center prescribe addictive medications such as benzodiazepines or opiates?

No, InnerBalance does not prescribe those types of medications, unless needed for temporary stabilization for withdrawal symptoms. We focus on identifying the root causes of cravings, repairing your body’s biochemical imbalances and teaching you the lifelong skills necessary to stay sober.

How does the treatment center plan to eliminate depression, anxiety, sleep problems, mood swings, and racing mind?

At InnerBalance we realize the need to find the root cause of these issues. For example, a racing mind can come from too much histamine in the brain, a condition caused Histadelia. When we find this condition through lab testing, we use the safe amino acids and vitamins that will lower histamine levels. Depression can come from under-functioning neurotransmitters, like serotonin.

Through urine testing, we check the serotonin receptors by looking at the Tryptophan levels, and then treat with the appropriate amino acids. Please call us for a more thorough description on how we can deal with underlying symptoms. These examples just scratch the surface of our biochemical restoration approach which is integral to our holistic treatment philosophy.

Is the treatment center licensed by the state?

Yes, the InnerBalance Health Center is fully and duly licensed by the State of Colorado.

Does the treatment program offer an exercise program that the client participates in?

The InnerBalance Treatment Program includes a mandatory weekly gym time. We encourage our clients to try the different gym facilities, including weights, pool activities, classes, etc. InnerBalance provides a high quality full service gym facility to their patients.

Contact Us

For questions about our addiction treatment program or availability, feel free to contact us.
For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital

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1414 W. 28th Ave Loveland, CO 80538

support@innerbalancehealthcenter.com