For many people struggling with addiction, there is an underlying mental health disorder that contributes to their substance misuse. This is known as a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder, which combines the symptoms of addiction and other mental health issues like depression or anxiety. At Footprints Beachside Recovery, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for individuals facing both alcohol abuse and depression.
If you are struggling with both alcohol and depression, we have a dual diagnosis treatment program that can help heal and address both your addiction and mental health issues. Contact us at 727-954-3908 today to learn more about how we can help you. Our treatment plans are tailored to meet the individual needs of each client and often involve an integrated approach that combines medication, counseling, and lifestyle interventions.
Understanding the Link Between Alcohol and Depression
Alcohol is a depressant, meaning it has a direct effect on the central nervous system. When a person drinks alcohol, it alters the brain’s chemistry by increasing levels of dopamine—the “feel-good” neurotransmitter—which can temporarily relieve feelings of sadness or stress. Unfortunately, this feeling does not last long, and alcohol can actually make depression worse in the long run.
Heavy drinking over an extended period of time can reduce serotonin levels in the brain, leading to a decrease in mood regulation and an increase in depressive symptoms such as:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lack of energy
- Changes in appetite
- Impaired motor skills and cognitive function
When combined with an existing mental health disorder like depression or anxiety, these symptoms can become more severe and lead to further substance abuse.
How Dual Diagnosis Works
Often, underlying mental health issues fuel a person’s addiction. It’s only natural to want to self-medicate trauma and pain. Drinking can also make mental health issues worse because of the changes in brain chemistry. To treat both addiction and depression, comprehensive dual diagnosis care addresses both substance misuse and mental health issues simultaneously.
Our dual diagnosis program is designed to uncover and resolve the root cause of your addiction, not just the symptoms. We’ll work with you to develop individualized treatment plans that incorporate elements of evidence-based therapies, medication management, and lifestyle interventions. Dual diagnosis treatment is a comprehensive approach that can help you reclaim your life.
The Benefits of Treating Alcohol Abuse and Depression Simultaneously
At Footprints Beachside Recovery, we understand how difficult it can be to cope with both alcohol abuse and depression at once. We offer a dual diagnosis treatment program that focuses on treating both issues simultaneously through individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Benefits of dual diagnosis treatment include:
- A comprehensive approach to addiction and mental health care
- Reduced risk of relapse
- Improved understanding of the relationship between addiction and mental illness
- Increased motivation for recovery
- Improved overall wellbeing
If you are struggling with alcohol and depression, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Our team specializes in providing evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), group therapy sessions, and individual counseling. We aim to address mental health and addiction issues simultaneously for maximum results.
Find Treatment For Misuse of Alcohol and Depression at Footprints Beachside Recovery
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol abuse combined with depression or another mental health disorder, Footprints Beachside Recovery can help you get your life back on track. Our supportive staff will work alongside you every step of the way to ensure that you have all the tools necessary to achieve sobriety while managing any underlying mental health issues that may be contributing to your addiction. Contact us today at 727-954-3908 for more information about our dual diagnosis treatment program.
