Just imagine for a moment: you begin to experience a significant high that puts you on edge, even making it difficult to sleep at night. Eventually you come out of it, but you’re now left feeling the lowest of lows, and it’s difficult to cope. In dealing with these dramatic mood swings, you’re tempted to use anything that will give you relief, even illicit drugs like marijuana or cocaine.
Such is the existence for many who live with bipolar disorder. In fact, people with Bipolar I are 5.8 times more likely to struggle with a substance use disorder at some point in their lives, according to a US survey by the Journal of Psychiatric Research. As a result, bipolar disorder and drug abuse tends to be a common—yet unhealthy—combination for people across the country. But why is it so easy for people with bipolar to also struggle with drugs? And if you or someone you love is dealing with bipolar disorder and drug abuse, what can you do to heal?
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that can create extreme fluctuations in your mood, energy, and ability to function, according to the American Psychological Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). If you are bipolar, you’ll struggle with significant mood swings, shifting from periods of mania—where you feel active, energized, and even agitated—to periods of depression—where you feel intensely sad and struggle with low energy.
There are different kinds of bipolar disorder, and each will range in the intensity and duration of mood swings. However, each of the various types of bipolar disorder can make a negative impact on your work, relationships, and day-to-day life if not managed properly.
Drug Addiction, Explained
If you’re struggling with a substance use disorder, that means you’ve become addicted to a substance (like drugs or alcohol) and keep using it despite any negative consequences. Because illegal drugs like meth or heroin are so addictive, they can easily get abused. If you’re addicted, signs of drug abuse can include the neglect of personal responsibilities, a lack of motivation, poor hygiene, and noticeable weight loss.
When you’ve reached the point of addiction, your drug use is no longer just about behavior. It also impacts your brain, which makes quitting drugs incredibly difficult. But if you’re bipolar and drug addiction is also a struggle as well, then getting sober can be even more of a challenge.
The Link Between Bipolar Disorder and Drug Abuse
For many, bipolar disorder and co-occurring disorders like drug abuse go hand in hand. But why are bipolar disorder and drug abuse interconnected? One of the most common explanations is related to the manic and depressive episodes you experience with bipolar. Because these mood swings can be so debilitating, those with bipolar can seek out various drugs to cope with their symptoms.
While these attempts to self-medicate with substances like drugs may provide short-term relief, over time you can become addicted to the substance you think is helping you. Sadly, these drugs can also make your mood episodes worse, as well as extend them even longer, further exacerbating your desire to seek out more substances to cope. According to Medicina, drug abuse can also reduce the effects of bipolar medication, as well as increase your proclivity to violence or suicide attempts. In the end, you’re left struggling with both bipolar disorder and drug addiction or (if alcohol has been your chosen way to cope) bipolar disorder and alcohol addiction.
Can Substance Abuse Cause Bipolar Disorder?
Both substance abuse and bipolar disorder negatively affect your brain. With that said, some experts believe that long-term substance abuse can actually lead to bipolar disorder. Because prolonged drug or alcohol abuse can impact the neurotransmitters in your brain, you can experience manic and depressive episodes during periods of substance withdrawal. If left untreated and the substance abuse continues, you could develop bipolar disorder, shares the International Bipolar Foundation.
Why Dual Diagnosis Treatment Matters for Bipolar Disorder and Drug Abuse
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mental health condition. However, when managed properly, you can live a normal, healthy life. That’s why many with bipolar disorder will choose to seek professional help for their condition. However, for those who struggle with both bipolar and drug abuse, getting treatment only for bipolar disorder often leaves their drug addiction untouched. As a result, the drug abuse continues, putting them at greater risk of harm (even a drug overdose) and making their bipolar disorder even worse.
When you’re dealing with co-occurring disorders like bipolar and drug use, you need to partner with a dual diagnosis treatment center equipped to address both conditions. A comprehensive dual diagnosis approach to bipolar disorder and drug abuse treatment will often include a holistic level of care. This incorporates both medical intervention and mental health treatment options like dialectical behavior therapy, putting you in the best position to not only overcome your addiction, but achieve a long-term quality of life.
Get Help for Bipolar Disorder and Drug Addiction at Integrative Life Center
If you’re struggling with alcohol and bipolar disorder or drug abuse, don’t lose hope. At Integrative Life Center, we provide dual diagnosis treatment programs for both conditions, addressing the root causes of your struggles and personalizing our care to meet your unique needs. Located in Nashville, TN, we’re also aware of these common co-occurring disorders within the artist and musician community. With our help, you can address your bipolar disorder in a healthier way and reclaim the life you deserve—free from addiction. To get started, contact us today.
