Author Archives: Restore Mental Health

Commonly Co-Occurring: Post-Traumatic Stress and Substance Abuse

PTSD and Substance Abuse

It’s not uncommon for people struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to develop unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as using drugs or alcohol, to self-medicate symptoms. However, prolonged drug or alcohol use can result in a substance use disorder, which is why PTSD and addiction often go hand in hand. These co-occurring disorders can exacerbate each […]

Commonly Co-Occurring: Depression and Substance Abuse

Commonly Co-Occurring: Depression and Substance Abuse

The connection between depression and addiction is complicated. People with mood disorders often battle substance abuse, and vice versa. While depression and addiction are distinct conditions, they frequently co-occur, with each disorder influencing the other and making it worse. People diagnosed with mood disorders are more likely to develop substance abuse issues for various reasons, […]

Commonly Co-Occurring: Bipolar Disorder and Substance Abuse

Commonly Co-Occurring: Bipolar Disorder and Substance Abuse

The relationship between bipolar disorder and substance abuse is complex. People with bipolar disorder often turn to substances to self-medicate and alleviate the intense emotional roller coaster they experience during manic or depressive episodes. However, research suggests that people with a dual diagnosis of bipolar and addiction don’t respond well to treatment and have a […]

Commonly Co-Occurring: Eating Disorders and Substance Abuse

Commonly Co-Occurring: Eating Disorders and Substance Abuse

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), eating disorders and substance abuse commonly coexist. Up to 50% of people diagnosed with eating disorders frequently report abusing alcohol and other recreational drugs. At least 35% of people who have substance abuse problems have suffered from an eating disorder. Several underlying factors are shared by individuals […]

Ashwagandha for Anxiety and Insomnia? What to Know

Ashwagandha for Anxiety and Insomnia? What to Know

In today’s fast-paced world full of constant stress, anxiety and insomnia have become common concerns. Many people are looking for natural ways to find relief before asking their doctor for prescription medications. One remedy that’s been growing in popularity is ashwagandha, an herb that’s been used medicinally since ancient times. However, there are several factors […]

The Family’s Role in Supporting Bipolar Disorder

The Family's Role in Supporting Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health diagnosis that 2.8% of the United States population had in the past year. Approximately 4.4% of American adults have experienced the disorder at some point in their lives. When a family member is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it often affects everyone in the household. Living with a bipolar family […]

The Family’s Role in Supporting Schizophrenia

The Family's Role in Supporting Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions worldwide. In the United States alone, 0.25%-0.64% of people either have or are suspected to have some form of the disease. The disturbed thinking and behavior this condition induces is a leading cause of homelessness, drug abuse, arrest and other negative life outcomes. People […]

It’s Complicated: Addiction and Relationships

It's Complicated: Addiction and Relationships

When someone falls into substance abuse, their partner may start wondering, “How does addiction affect relationships?” Change might not happen right away, but as the disorder progresses, arguments become more frequent. Both parties feel like they can’t trust each other and like they aren’t being understood. Sometimes, drugs ruin relationships. However, seeking help in time […]