Exploring the link between mental health and addiction

Mental health conditions and addiction often go hand in hand and are known as co-occurring conditions.

It is a complex relationship that often works in both directions – mental health conditions can increase the risk of addiction whilst addiction can impact mental health.

Why is addiction so closely linked with mental health?

People often turn to addictive behaviours such as drinking alcohol or taking substances because in the short term they can make us feel relaxed, happy and confident. When someone is struggling with their mental health, addictive behaviour can become a coping mechanism to deal with difficult feelings.

For example, if someone is suffering from anxiety, alcohol might help to increase confidence and make social situations easier. Similarly, someone facing depression and/or trauma might turn to drugs for escapism.

This can feel liberating, but the dopamine hit we get from these behaviours is only short-lived and leads to chasing that same feeling. Over time, our brains adapt to repeated substance use, and we start to need more to achieve the same effects. This is how the cycle of addiction begins.

When someone becomes addicted, it can often be all-consuming. They will spend a lot of time thinking about, doing and recovering from the addictive behaviour as their interest in relationships, work and hobbies decreases. This can intensify mental health struggles and make the grip of addiction harder to break.

What to do if you are worried about addiction and mental health

 If you are struggling with your mental health and are concerned you may be developing addictive habits, evidence suggests that following the '5 ways to wellbeing' can help (Source: NHS): 

• Connecting with others: Talking matters and having a solid support network around you can help you stay on track and work through your feelings. Prioritise time with friends and family or join a support group of people with similar lived experience.

  
  

• Be physically active: Try running or other aerobic exercise to improve fitness and keep you moving alongside strength training. Try a new sport and spend time with others and use exercise to redirect from addictive habits.

  
  

• Learn new skills: Learn to cook different recipes, try a new hobby, start a DIY project or volunteer your time. This can help give you structure, purpose and help you feel fulfilled.

  
  

• Give to others: Practice acts of kindness, be a support to friends, family or colleagues or give back to your community.

  
  

• Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness): Focus on the world around you in the present moment as well as your own thoughts and feelings. This can help us to appreciate little things and have a greater understanding of ourselves. Journaling can also be a great outlet for difficult feelings.

  
  

Remember, you are not alone. If you are struggling, getting support is one of the most important things you can do. At CADAS, we offer 1-1 sessions, groups and drop-ins.

Tips to help you talk about addiction and mental health

Talking can be hard. It’s not easy to share what we are going through but it can make things feel so much lighter. Here are some tips to make talking easier:

1.     Write things down and sort through your thoughts in a calming way

2.     Start simple. It could be ‘I know something doesn’t feel right’

3.     Pace yourself – you can share as much or as little as you like

4.     Define expectations. Do you want action, advice or a safe space?

5.     Be honest about the impact of what you are going through

Read more over on our resources page.

If you are struggling with addiction and need support, you are not alone.

WE CAN HELP.

CADAS Helpline: 0800 254 5658 (available weekdays 9am-5pm)