May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an important time to bring attention to mental health’s impact on individuals, families, and communities. While mental health issues affect millions of people, there is still a stigma surrounding seeking help for these concerns. This stigma can prevent individuals from getting the support they need and deserve. It’s essential to understand how to ask for help if you or a loved one is struggling with mental health challenges.
At Recovery Centers of America, we offer compassionate and comprehensive treatment programs for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. In Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond, we want to raise awareness about mental health, help more people find the courage to ask for help, and provide the resources they need to recover.
Call 1-800-RECOVERY today for more on our mental health and addiction treatment programs.
Stigma Surrounding Mental Health Issues and Addiction
Substance and mental health disorders often co-occur, with one leading to the other. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), more than 25% of those with a mental health disorder also have a substance use disorder.1 However, many people facing these challenges do not receive the help they need due to the stigma surrounding both issues.
Stigma is a negative belief or attitude towards someone based on characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and in this case, mental health. This societal stigma can make individuals feel ashamed or embarrassed about their condition, leading them to hide it or not seek help.
Overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction requires a concerted effort to educate people and promote awareness and understanding. It’s essential to recognize that mental health disorders and addiction are medical conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of their background, and that seeking treatment is a sign of strength and resilience. By challenging stereotypes and promoting empathy and understanding, it’s possible to create a more supportive and inclusive society for those who struggle with mental health and addiction.
How to Ask for Mental Health Help
If you are struggling with mental health challenges, know that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it takes courage and strength to reach out for support and take steps towards recovery. Here are some ways you can ask for mental health help:
- Talk to someone you trust – A friend, family member, or healthcare provider can provide support and guidance in seeking help. Talking about your struggles can also help reduce feelings of isolation and shame.
- Research treatment options – Take time to research different treatment programs and find one that fits your specific needs and preferences. Recovery Centers of America offers a variety of co-occurring mental health and addiction treatment programs, including inpatient, outpatient, and intensive outpatient programs.
- Contact a helpline – If you are unsure where to start or need immediate support, you can call a mental health helpline. These hotlines are staffed by trained professionals who can provide confidential support and connect you with resources in your area. 988 is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and you can also reach out to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI.
Better days are possible, and you don’t have to face your mental health challenges alone. Asking for help is the first step towards recovery and a better quality of life.
Signs of Common Mental Health Issues
There are numerous mental illnesses, each with unique signs and symptoms. These issues can affect individuals of any age, race, or gender and significantly impact their daily lives. It’s essential to recognize the signs of these mental health issues and seek professional help when necessary. Here are some signs of a few common mental health issues:
Anxiety
- Excessive worry or fear that is difficult to control.
- Feeling restless or on edge.
- Muscle tension or trembling.
- Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep.
- Panic attacks.
- Avoiding situations or activities that cause anxiety.
Depression
- Persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness.
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
- Significant weight loss or gain.
- Changes in sleep patterns.
- Fatigue or loss of energy.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks of a traumatic event.
- Avoiding situations that remind you of the trauma.
- Negative changes in mood or thoughts, such as guilt or shame.
- Hyperarousal, such as difficulty sleeping or concentrating, irritability, or being easily startled.
- Feeling disconnected or numb.
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or chest pain.
Eating Disorders
- Preoccupation with weight or food.
- Obsessively counting calories or restricting food intake.
- Binge eating or purging behavior, such as vomiting or using laxatives.
- Excessive exercise.
- Distorted body image.
- Withdrawal from social activities or previously enjoyed hobbies.
Substance Use Disorders
- Difficulty controlling substance use.
- Continued use of a substance despite negative consequences.
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
- Tolerance, or needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect.
- Spending significant time obtaining or using the substance.
- Neglecting responsibilities or relationships due to substance use.
It is important to note that everyone experiences mental health issues differently, and these signs and symptoms may not be present in every individual.
The Connection Between Mental Health and Addiction
Addiction and mental health issues are often linked. Individuals with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, may use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate and cope with their symptoms. In turn, substance use can worsen mental health symptoms and lead to addiction.
At the same time, consuming larger amounts of drugs or alcohol over a long period can also cause changes in brain chemistry, leading to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. That’s why dual diagnosis requires an integrated approach that addresses both conditions simultaneously.
An integrated approach includes a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes tailored to the individual’s specific needs. This approach is most effective when delivered by trained professionals with experience treating individuals with co-occurring conditions. If you or your loved one has a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, or both, it’s best to reach out for help.
Recovery Centers of America Is Ready to Help
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month this May, it’s important to remember that help is available 24/7 from trusted treatment providers like Recovery Centers of America.
RCA offers a range of co-occurring addiction and mental health services, including residential rehab, outpatient programs, medication-assisted treatment, and behavioral health therapies to address the root causes of addiction and mental health issues.
Recovery is possible. Call 1-800-RECOVERY or reach out to us online to get started.
Source:
1. SAMHSA – Mental Health and Substance Use Co-Occurring Disorders
