How to Help Someone with Drug Addiction and Depression

Mental health issues are not easy to deal with. Many people are reluctant to come forward to get the help they need. They may not think their problems are that bad or maybe afraid of what others will think of them. 

But not getting help for a mental problem is very dangerous. It can lead to acts of self-harm and even suicide. Many people turn to drugs and alcohol to self-medicate, which takes them on a downward spiral. 

It is not uncommon for people with depression to self-medicate, which can eventually lead to addiction. When an addiction forms, the person must get help to treat their dependency issues and their underlying causes. This article will discuss how to help someone with drug addiction and depression. 

Signs of Drug Addiction and Depression

If a person close to you is dealing with depression, they may express the following symptoms: 

• A loss of interest in the things they once loved
• Irritability
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Trouble sleeping 
• Lack of self-care
• Changes in weight or appetite

Symptoms of severe depression include: 

• Suicidal thoughts
• Delusions and hallucinations
• Reckless behavior
• Physical manifestations such as aches and pains

If the person starts using drugs and alcohol to self-medicate, an addiction may begin to form. Here are some signs that your loved one may be developing dependency issues:

• Spending much time trying to get and use the drug
• Physical symptoms associated with the drug they are using
• Mood swings
• Increased symptoms of depression such as hallucinations, reckless behavior, withdrawal from society, and lack of self-care
• Financial difficulties
• Legal issues
• Reckless behavior

How to Help Someone with Drug Addiction and Depression

If you know someone dealing with drug addiction and depression, it is essential to get them help as soon as possible. Start by talking to them about checking into rehab. In doing so, let them know how much you care about them and how much it hurts you to see them suffering. Maintain a non-judgmental tone. 

If you have spoken to your loved one several times about getting help and they refuse to check into a rehab, you may need to stage an intervention. This involves getting family and close friends together to talk to the person about getting help. 

During the meeting, guests should let the person know that if they refuse to get help, they will not continue to support them. Actions may include:

• Refusing to talk to them.
• Not giving them money.
• Not allowing them to live under their roof.

The hope is that the person will hit rock bottom and have nowhere else to turn other than a rehab facility. 

How Prevail Recovery Can Help

Many facilities know how to help someone with drug addiction and depression, but Prevail Recovery takes an approach that sets us apart. 

We use dual diagnosis, which simultaneously treats addiction and its underlying causes, including depression and other types of mental illness. We believe this is the best method for providing long-term recovery. We create a customized plan for each patient that addresses their individual needs. 

Other therapies include detox, 12 step programs, family therapy, and relapse prevention care. The comprehensive care we offer helps patients overcome dependency issues and maintain sobriety. Treatments are provided through partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient programs. 
Depression and addiction can be a slippery slope. If you or a loved one is suffering, it’s best to get help before things get out of hand. Call Prevail Recovery to take the first steps in moving on to a higher quality of life.