Depression and Addiction: The Link
Sometimes, life challenges can seem impossible to face and can lead people down the path of addiction to substances like drugs and alcohol. This new coping mechanism may work at first but will eventually lead to a downward spiral where depression and addiction become tightly woven together. In this blog, Myrtle Beach Recovery, an alcohol and drug rehab center dedicated to helping individuals break free from the chains of addiction, looks at the relationship between the two and how you might escape this cycle.
If you or a loved one could benefit from 12 Steps to Recovery, contact Myrtle Beach Recovery to learn about our comfortable residential setting.
Effects of Depression and Substance Abuse
Depression is a devastating mental illness that can destroy lives. It may manifest itself in many ways, including constant sadness, fatigue, and loss of interest in things you once enjoyed. Some may turn to substances to ease how terrible they feel, begging the question, does alcohol and drug use make you depressed, or does it really allow you to escape?
Unfortunately, the truth to this question is complicated. These substances will provide temporary relief, but only for a short time, as they exacerbate the underlying depression. Alcohol-induced depression, in particular, is a concern that should be taken seriously, as it can disrupt the brain’s chemistry, leading you to feel complete despair. This, in turn, will have devastating consequences on your life. Similarly, drugs like cocaine may make you feel euphoria, but the crash after will include further depression. There are many interactions like this when it comes to substances, making it imperative to get sober if you have depression.
Why Do People Abuse Drugs?
To tackle the problem of depression and addiction, we must understand why people use substances in the first place. Many turn to drugs as a way to self-medicate underlying problems that are either untreatable or the person has a lack of access to help for them. The relief can help them to feel normal again or function better for a short time. But in the end, it can have horrible health and life impacts.
Denial in Addiction: Depressed When Not High
Denial is a big part of addiction, and those who are in it tell themselves they need the drugs or alcohol to function outside of depression. Because denial makes them feel as if they are doing the right thing or the necessary one, they may not reach out for help until it is too late.
When an individual feels depressed when not high and otherwise spends their life under a black cloud, it can make substance abuse an incredibly difficult thing to escape. The torture of feeling depressed all the time and the ease of making it go away for a short while leads to a cycle that is hard to break without professional help.
Mental Illness and Substance Abuse Treatment
At Myrtle Beach Recovery, we recognize the intricate link between depression and addiction. We offer a 12-step immersion program designed to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery. Our short-term and long-term programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of our residents, ensuring that they receive the support and guidance necessary for lasting change.
We also work closely with experienced counselors who can help you break free. By addressing mental health concerns alongside addiction, we offer a comprehensive approach to healing. We understand that drugs that make you not care about anything are not the solution, and we are committed to helping our residents build a better life.
Conclusion: Depression and Addiction
Depression and addiction are both terrible things to overcome, especially alone. The link between the two is quite clear, but there is hope. Myrtle Beach Recovery is ready to help those trapped in this vicious cycle, offering the tools and support needed to break free and embrace a brighter future. If you or a loved one is battling depression and addiction, know that there is help available. Together, we can rewrite your story, one step at a time.
Remember, recovery is possible, and Myrtle Beach Recovery is here to guide you on your journey to a healthier, happier life. Contact us today.
