Breaking the Cycle: Addiction and Your Mental Wellbeing
Many people in the UK struggle with addiction, a complex issue that often goes hand-in-hand with mental health concerns. Here at The Recovery Lodge, we understand this connection deeply. This blog aims to shed light on the link between addiction and mental health, and the importance of addressing both aspects in successful recovery.
A Two-Way Street: Addiction and Mental Health
Public Health England reports that over half of individuals facing severe substance misuse also have a diagnosed mental health condition – Better care for people with co-occurring mental health, and alcohol and drug use conditions (publishing.service.gov.uk)
This highlights the close relationship between the two. Mental health struggles like anxiety or depression can lead people to use substances as a way to cope with difficult emotions. Conversely, addiction can worsen existing mental health issues. Neglecting responsibilities due to addiction can fuel feelings of despair, further perpetuating the cycle.
At The Recovery Lodge, we recognise this two-way street. We incorporate mental health treatment alongside addiction recovery programs, creating a holistic approach to healing.
The Mental Health Foundation further emphasises this link, explaining how substance use can be both a cause and consequence of mental health problems. Regular cannabis use, for instance, can increase the risk of anxiety or depression. Stimulant drugs like cocaine can trigger psychosis and schizophrenia, while hallucinogens can worsen existing mental health issues – Drugs and mental health | Mental Health Foundation This highlights the importance of addressing both conditions simultaneously for a complete recovery.
Shattering the Stigma: Common Misconceptions About Addiction
Many misunderstandings surround addiction. Phrases like “addiction is a choice” or “addicts lack willpower” are simply untrue. Addiction is a mental health disorder, often caused by changes in brain chemistry due to substance use. These changes make it extremely difficult to control substance use, even with the best intentions.
- Myth 1: Addiction is a Choice. This misconception implies that people with addiction lack willpower or could simply stop using substances if they wanted to. However, addiction is a chronic brain disease. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) explains that repeated drug use alters brain structure and function, particularly in areas related to reward, motivation, memory, and learning [Part 1: The Connection Between Substance Use Disorders and Mental Illness | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)]. These changes make it incredibly difficult to control substance use, even when someone recognises the negative consequences.
- Myth 2: Addicts Lack Willpower. This myth dismisses the significant challenges people with addiction face. Addiction hijacks the reward system in the brain, making the user crave the substance despite knowing it’s harmful. According to the NHS, addiction is defined as “not having control over doing, taking or using something to the point where it could be harmful to you.” [Addiction: what is it? – NHS (www.nhs.uk)]. Willpower alone is not enough to overcome the powerful biological and psychological forces at play.
Here at The Recovery Lodge, we promote empathy and understanding for those battling addiction. We recognise it as a disease, not a moral failing.
Resources for Your Recovery Journey
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction and mental health, know that you’re not alone. Here are some resources that can help:
- The Recovery Lodge: We offer personalised treatment plans that address both addiction and mental health concerns. Contact us today for a free consultation.
- Mind: A leading UK mental health charity offering information and support Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/.
- NHS Choices: Access NHS addiction and mental health services near you NHS Choices: [Drug addiction: getting help – NHS (www.nhs.uk)