There is clear evidence of a connection between bipolar disorder and alcohol abuse disorder, although researchers are unsure why. Unfortunately, it is common for those struggling with a mental health disorder to abuse drugs or alcohol. That is why it is important for you to look for help at a dual diagnosis treatment center like TruHealing Centers.
Is Bipolar Disorder Linked to Alcohol Abuse?
Bipolar disorder, once called manic depression, is a mental health disorder that involves extreme mood swings. The moods are typically the emotional highs associated with mania or the deeps lows that come with depression.
Most people feel depressed at some point in their life. It is common to experience emotional highs, too. But, for those with bipolar disorder, these moods shift back and forth at extreme levels.
When someone with this condition is experiencing mania, they may not sleep for days. They may exhibit risky behaviors and make poor choices. During the depressive cycle, that same person might refuse to get out of bed, be unable to make a decision and even dream about suicide.
The specific link between bipolar disorder and alcohol abuse is unclear, but they are often co-occurring disorders. It may be that the reason varies from person to person.
What Are Likely Connections Between Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Abuse?
Although there may not be a clear answer to why these conditions tend to occur together, there are some practical theories. Genetics may play a role, for example.
Key genetic differences in brain chemistry tend to appear in those with bipolar disorder. The condition also runs in families. The same genetic traits that increase a person’s risk of being bipolar also may be the push them towards alcohol. Alcohol abuse also tends to run in families. The genetic connection is strong but not true for everyone with bipolar disorder or alcohol use disorder.
Another possibility is that a person with bipolar disorder may drink to ease their symptoms. During the manic phase, they may be overly anxious, and alcohol may calm them. When depressed, they may drink to feel less sad.
Mania is also typically accompanied by lowered inhibitions. They may abuse alcohol and drugs to have fun. Reckless behavior is often part of the mania, as well. Drinking makes that behavior is even more dangerous.
Is There Treatment for Both Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Abuse?
Reputable rehab centers will also provide mental health treatment. They will list dual diagnosis treatment on their website or in marketing literature, which means they treat co-occurring disorders.
Dual diagnosis treatment is important for most people because of the link between mental health disorders and addiction. Getting treatment for both at the same time reduces the risk of relapse.
TruHealing Centers is known not just for substance abuse treatment but also for mental health therapy. Services at TruHealing Centers include:
We have locations all along the east coast and in Ohio and Atlanta.
The TruHealing Centers staff will perform an assessment at admission and then develop an individual care plan. This way, those in need of both addiction treatment and mental health services get both. Unless you treat bipolar disorder alongside the addiction, you may start drinking again the next time you have a manic or depressive episode.
Treat Bipolar Disorder and Addiction at TruHealing Centers
If you are someone you love is suffering from bipolar disorder, it is possible to treat it simultaneously as an addiction. Give us a call at [Direct] or use our contact form today to find out more about dual diagnosis treatment at TruHealing Centers.
