When an individual has a substance abuse disorder and a mental illness, they’re dealing with a co-occurring or dual diagnosis disorder. While getting treatment for dual diagnosis can help treat these disorders, new symptoms of depression may increase the risk of relapse after completing treatment.
There are many mechanisms believed to cause depression, and a lack of serotonin in the brain is linked to depression. [1] Addiction affects serotonin levels in the brain, virtually depleting serotonin during detox and worsening symptoms of depression. While serotonin drops during detox can be treated during PHP drug treatment, what about when these fluctuate after a patient has completed the treatment program?
After completing treatment, symptoms of a co-occurring disorder may still be present, especially when triggers of relapse are present. When serotonin levels are depleted and symptoms of depression are present, such as anxiety, hopelessness, and excessive crying, former addicts may feel that the only way to overcome these symptoms and beat their depression is to use again. This is one of the strongest and most dangerous ways that depression is connected to relapse.
The key to relapse prevention is to understand the symptoms of relapse in relation to depression. If you are feeling blue or experiencing cravings, it’s important to reach out for help. Depression symptoms have been identified as the biggest trigger in alcohol relapse, so recognizing signs of depression and getting help can be vital in relapse prevention. [2]
Call our Banyan Detox Stuart team at 888-280-4763 for more tips on preventing relapse and treating depression.
Self-assessments can help you keep track of potential relapse triggers so you can avoid the situation altogether. If you see signs of depression or relapse in yourself, reaching out for help is the best way to ensure you’ll stay sober, happy, and healthy. Potential signs of depression include:
Many symptoms of oncoming relapse are similar to those of depression. Symptoms of oncoming relapse include:
Sources:
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