According to the experts at the American Psychiatric Association, bipolar disorder can wreak havoc on an individual’s life, causing problems that include broken friendships and family relationships and an inability to go to school or work. In some cases, the depressive episodes can become so severe that an individual may even take their own life. Addiction is a chronic disease of the brain, as defined by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, which is marked by relapse and can also lead to problems with relationships and one’s ability to function in society at large.

These two disorders have much in common, it would seem. Still, having two conditions at the same time should complicate matters when it comes to treating drug and alcohol addiction. In actuality, the concept of two conditions occurring simultaneously is not unusual at all. There are a couple of ways in which the conditions can manifest, for instance:

• An individual may suffer from bipolar disorder and “self-medicate” with drugs or alcohol.
• An individual may suffer from bipolar disorder and abuse drugs or alcohol in an attempt to prolong the manic state.
• An individual may suffer from addiction to drugs or alcohol and the resulting effects on their life may lead to a major depression that then develops into a bipolar disorder.
• Both conditions may occur and develop at the same time.

Effective Treatment Protocols Can Help Both Addiction and Bipolar Disorder Simultaneously

Suppose that someone you love has exhibited all the signs of bipolar disorder. They may have even been diagnosed as having the condition by a medical professional. Over time, the same individual develops an addiction to either drugs or alcohol. If this individual seeks treatment for the drug or alcohol abuse but ignores the symptoms of the bipolar disorder, they may be setting themselves up for a relapse. The  National Institute on Drug Abuse has stated that treating co-morbid conditions at the same time is necessary to avoid this very thing.

Unfortunately, there are times when the two conditions don’t necessarily receive the attention they deserve at the same time. For instance, addiction is generally treated from a psychological front. When an individual seeks treatment, they will visit a mental health clinic that provides outpatient services, for instance. Other types of mental disorders are often diagnosed by one’s medical doctor. In the case of bipolar disorder, because the symptoms can often mimic those of drug dependence, it is possible that one or the other may be overlooked. This can complicate addiction treatment or vice versa.

When you choose to receive treatment at a facility that is well-versed in effective, evidence-based treatments, it is possible to diagnose both conditions correctly and receive the proper care. At Axis, our professional and experienced staff members will provide you or your loved one with a full assessment to determine whether co-occurring disorders are present. If they are, the treatment plan will reflect those needs.

Similar Treatment Ideals Can Provide Attention to Both Conditions

One form of treatment for addiction that is highly recommended by the experts in the field of addiction science is cognitive behavioral therapy. This type of therapy is different from the old models of talk therapy because it has a distinct plan of action set over a specific number of sessions. Originally developed for alcohol treatment, it is now used for a wide variety of conditions, including bipolar disorder. In fact, a presentation published by Stanford University indicates that when CBT is applied with the right medication, manic episodes occur half as often as with medication alone, and depressive episodes benefit even more. Admissions are also cut in half when the two techniques are used together.

Bipolar disorders can be complicated and rather frightening, particularly to those experiencing them and their families. However, with the right treatments and the correct diagnosis, it is possible to manage the condition effectively – to the point that one may enjoy their life with the same enthusiasm they did before the onset of the symptoms. When the conditions are complicated with addiction, the biggest hurdle is getting the help you need to begin a life with focus and ambition toward recovery. Once you’ve made that decision, it is possible to map out a plan that will take all your needs into consideration.

For information on dual diagnosis treatment that can effectively address both addiction issues and bipolar disorder, call us here at Axis today.