Bipolar
disorder affects approximately 1 to 2 percent of the general
population, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and
Alcoholism (NIAAA). Of these individuals struggling with bipolar
disorder, 56.1 percent concurrently struggle with some form of substance
abuse or dependence. NIAAA reports that 16.1 percent struggle
specifically with alcohol abuse (Bipolar Disorder and Alcoholism, 2002).
Though the relationship between alcohol abuse and bipolar disorder is
evident, the reasons for this relationship are debated between
professionals within the mental health field.
Characterized by abnormal shifts in mood and energy levels, bipolar disorder is believed to be caused by a combination of genetics and brain structure and/or development. Those who struggle with bipolar disorder are thrown into mood episodes, either manic or depressive in nature. During manic episodes, an individual is highly energized and overly excited, with behavioral characteristics including racing thoughts, talking at a fast pace, being easily distracted or restless, impulsivity and/or engaging in high-risk behaviors. Depressive episodes are characterized by a sad, hopeless state in which the individual feels tired, has trouble making decisions, experiences changes in eating or sleeping patterns and/or has suicidal thoughts (National Institute of Mental Health).
Less severe mood episodes can be present in those with bipolar disorder. For instance, hypomania is a lesser form of a manic episode. Mixed states refer to episodes in which an individual exhibits symptoms of both mania and depression. Severe forms of bipolar disorder include the presence of hallucinations or delusions, which often result in the misdiagnosis of schizophrenia.
Substance abuse is common among those struggling with bipolar
disorder, though the exact reasons for this are unknown. Speculations
include a genetic commonality. It is also known that many individuals
struggling with bipolar disorder, as with other mental health disorders,
often turn to substances to self-medicate and numb their symptoms.
However, alcohol and drugs often trigger mood episodes or exacerbate
existing symptoms in those with bipolar disorder.
If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder and a co-occurring substance abuse issue, dual diagnosis treatment is the most effective course of treatment. Dual diagnosis treatment takes into consideration the delicate relationship between a mental health disorder and substance abuse problem. Many California rehab facilities focus on one or the other, which means the symptoms and behaviors of the condition that goes untreated are often worsened. This contributes to the high relapse rates of many facilities nationwide. Contact theCalifornia Dual Diagnosis Helpline to speak with a professional today and learn more about southern California alcohol and drug programs that focus on dual diagnosis.
Characterized by abnormal shifts in mood and energy levels, bipolar disorder is believed to be caused by a combination of genetics and brain structure and/or development. Those who struggle with bipolar disorder are thrown into mood episodes, either manic or depressive in nature. During manic episodes, an individual is highly energized and overly excited, with behavioral characteristics including racing thoughts, talking at a fast pace, being easily distracted or restless, impulsivity and/or engaging in high-risk behaviors. Depressive episodes are characterized by a sad, hopeless state in which the individual feels tired, has trouble making decisions, experiences changes in eating or sleeping patterns and/or has suicidal thoughts (National Institute of Mental Health).
Less severe mood episodes can be present in those with bipolar disorder. For instance, hypomania is a lesser form of a manic episode. Mixed states refer to episodes in which an individual exhibits symptoms of both mania and depression. Severe forms of bipolar disorder include the presence of hallucinations or delusions, which often result in the misdiagnosis of schizophrenia.
If you or a loved one is struggling with bipolar disorder and a co-occurring substance abuse issue, dual diagnosis treatment is the most effective course of treatment. Dual diagnosis treatment takes into consideration the delicate relationship between a mental health disorder and substance abuse problem. Many California rehab facilities focus on one or the other, which means the symptoms and behaviors of the condition that goes untreated are often worsened. This contributes to the high relapse rates of many facilities nationwide. Contact theCalifornia Dual Diagnosis Helpline to speak with a professional today and learn more about southern California alcohol and drug programs that focus on dual diagnosis.