Depression plays a bigger role in addiction than many people realize. Addiction and depression symptoms are interrelated, and understanding this connection can be crucial to saving a life.
While those with depression sometimes fit the stereotype of being sad and suicidal, many people have high-functioning depression. In those situations, detecting the symptoms can be more difficult.
The Biochemical Reactions Related to Depression Symptoms
According to Substance Use & Misuse, those with addiction can develop depression and vice versa. These co-occurring disorders can arise from the following situations:
- Self-medication hypothesis: Individuals may use substances as a form of medication to relieve the intensity of depression symptoms. However, this only makes matters worse and leads to a dependence.
- Neurochemical links: depression disrupts the brain’s neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. Substance use disorder (SUD) can worsen depression symptoms, leading to increased substance use in an effort to appear okay.
- Shared risk factors: Genetics, trauma, stress, and isolation create a higher possibility of one condition contributing to the other.
The aforementioned article in Substance Use & Misuse explains that “depression not only causes great mental anguish but also intrudes upon fundamental biological processes.” These biochemical reactions are linked to low or imbalanced levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These biological factors can affect an individual’s mood, energy, and motivation. Additionally, some experts suggest that the increased activity of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) contributes to depression. MAO breaks down neurotransmitters and disrupts brain signaling.
The Symbiotic Relationship of Depression and Addiction
A symbiotic relationship is defined as a close, prolonged association where both sides benefit from the interaction. In other words, both sides work hand in hand for their own gain. Depression and addiction are mental and chronic conditions that go hand in hand to affect mood, thoughts, and physical health. A combination of both can lead to the following:
- Cravings/loss of appetite
- Increased tolerance, leading to dependence
- Insomnia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Withdrawal symptoms
An individual with a dual diagnosis of depression and addiction will likely recognize those symptoms. Depression and addiction create a cycle of guilt, numbness, and hopelessness. Soon, a person may discover that they are in the midst of a parasitic relationship instead of a symbiotic one. A parasitic relationship is where one side benefits while the other side gets hurt. In that case, the person with a dual diagnosis is the one who gets hurt.
An Unforgiving Life Cycle of Addiction and Depression Symptoms
The vicious cycle of depression and addiction reinforces both conditions. Over time, the negative consequences magnify as depression leads to damaged relationships and financial problems. Thus, the cycle continues, perpetuating more feelings of hopelessness and apathy.
The impact of co-occurring disorders such as depression and addiction can lead to:
- Increased suicidality
- Impaired decision making
- Diminished physical health
- Reduced productivity
- Damaged/strained relationships
How to Treat Depression Symptoms
While it can be challenging to treat depression due to its complexity, Renaissance Ranch offers both inpatient and outpatient treatment. Our hardworking and empathetic team is driven by a sense of loving faith but also provides evidence-based therapy. We strive to offer holistic treatment that includes breath work alongside traditional modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
At Renaissance Ranch, people can break free from the stigma of mental health issues and addiction. When someone feels accepted, it is easier to acknowledge that they need help. We will address the addiction as well as the depression. Addressing one condition without the other can lead to more substance abuse and vulnerability to relapse.
The strategies we use to treat depression symptoms alongside addiction include the following:
- Comprehensive assessment: We provide an in-depth evaluation. This helps our clinicians better understand the co-occurring disorders and their severity. This helps them create a personalized treatment plan.
- Medication: For some individuals, taking medication for depression symptoms can support addiction recovery. Examples of medications we may use are antidepressants for depression and naltrexone and buprenorphine for the withdrawal process.
- Support groups: Peer groups provide understanding and shared experiences in navigating the recovery process. Examples of support groups are alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA).
- Lifestyle changes: Healthy habits can improve someone’s mood and support their recovery. These habits can include exercise, eating healthy, practicing mindfulness, and meditating.
- Family involvement: Rebuilding trust and creating new family dynamics can occur through family therapy and educational sessions.
Engaging in the Process of Healing From Depression and Addiction
The process of recovery is a gradual progression that requires patience, persistence, and self-compassion. People can become stronger and wiser as they learn from life’s adversities. However, the first step is usually the scariest, and that is asking for professional help.
As we’ve been discussing, depression’s role in addiction is more far-reaching than many people realize. It is important that through education, awareness, and open communication, the general public can reduce the stigma associated with asking for help. This will encourage individuals to seek the care they need.
Fortunately, effective help is available. What’s more, treating depression and addiction simultaneously offers the best chance for a long-lasting recovery. With appropriate care and a healthy support system, someone who is committed can overcome the challenges of co-occurring disorders and live a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Some days, depression can be as small as a firefly in the palm of a bear. Other days, depression becomes the bear. Depression can consume a person’s world and destroy their lives in the process. Understanding how to identify depression symptoms can save a life before it is too late. Check on all your loved ones, especially the ones who wear the brightest smile. Be kind to everyone because you never know what that person might be going through mentally. Spreading awareness and support creates more understanding and allows us to be gentler with each other. Depression and addiction often go hand in hand. If you or a loved one struggle with depression and addiction, please call (801) 308-8898.