Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
Mental health problems and substance use disorders sometimes occur together. This is because:
- Certain illegal drugs can cause people with an addiction to experience one or more symptoms of a mental health problem
- Mental health problems can sometimes lead to alcohol or drug use, as some people with a mental health problem may misuse these substances as a form of self-medication
- Mental and substance use disorders share some underlying causes, including changes in brain composition, genetic vulnerabilities, and early exposure to stress or trauma
More than one in four adults living with serious mental health problems also has a substance use problem. Substance use problems occur more frequently with certain mental health problems, including:
Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders can refer to substance use or substance dependence. Symptoms of substance use disorders may include:
- Behavioral changes, such as:
- Drop in attendance and performance at work or school
- Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities)
- Using substances in physically hazardous situations such as while driving or operating a machine
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Unexplained change in personality or attitude
- Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts
- Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness
- Lacking of motivation
- Appearing fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason
- Physical changes, such as:
- Bloodshot eyes and abnormally sized pupils
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Deterioration of physical appearance
- Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing
- Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
- Social changes, such as:
- Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies
- Legal problems related to substance use
- Unexplained need for money or financial problems
- Using substances even though it causes problems in relationships
Recovering from Mental Health Problems and Substance Use
Someone with a mental health problem and substance use disorder must treat both issues. Treatment for both mental health problems and substance use disorders may include rehabilitation, medications, support groups, and talk therapy.
Looking for More Information or Support?
- Read more about how individuals living with both mental health and substance use disorders and their families can actively engage in their recovery process.
- Learn how to talk about mental health or how to get help for yourself or someone you care about.
- Read about the science behind substance use and get facts about how drugs affect the brain and body.
The first-ever Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health reviews what we know about substance misuse and how we can use that knowledge to address substance misuse and its related consequences.
If you are a Tulare County resident with a substance abuse problem, a qualifiying mental health diagnosis, and have an open Tulare County mental health case, ask your case manager if you can get help at one of our programs. Call TCMH Adult Integrated Clinic (559) 623-0900 or (559) 636-4000 for information on how to get help and get on the road to recovery.
