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Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
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Mental health problems and substance use disorders sometimes occur together. This is because:
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\n - Certain illegal drugs can cause people with an addiction to experience one or more symptoms of a mental health problem
\n - Mental health problems can sometimes lead to alcohol or drug use, as some people with a mental health problem may misuse these substances as a form of self-medication
\n - Mental and substance use disorders share some underlying causes, including changes in brain composition, genetic vulnerabilities, and early exposure to stress or trauma
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More than one in four adults living with serious mental health problems also has a substance use problem. Substance use problems occur more frequently with certain mental health problems, including:
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Substance Use Disorders
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Substance use disorders can refer to substance use or substance dependence. Symptoms of substance use disorders may include:
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\n - Behavioral changes, such as: \n
\n - Drop in attendance and performance at work or school
\n - Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities)
\n - Using substances in physically hazardous situations such as while driving or operating a machine
\n - Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
\n - Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
\n - Unexplained change in personality or attitude
\n - Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts
\n - Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness
\n - Lacking of motivation
\n - Appearing fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason
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\n - Physical changes, such as: \n
\n - Bloodshot eyes and abnormally sized pupils
\n - Sudden weight loss or weight gain
\n - Deterioration of physical appearance
\n - Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing
\n - Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
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\n - Social changes, such as: \n
\n - Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies
\n - Legal problems related to substance use
\n - Unexplained need for money or financial problems
\n - Using substances even though it causes problems in relationships
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Recovering from Mental Health Problems and Substance Use
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Someone with a mental health problem and substance use disorder must treat both issues. Treatment for both mental health problems and substance use disorders may include rehabilitation, medications, support groups, and talk therapy.
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