According to the Center for Disease Control, 88,000 people die of alcohol-related deaths and 70,000 from drug overdoses each year. Both genetics and habits play a role in how the brain is wired when it comes to addiction. For example, some people develop an issue in their brain that makes them want to drink more and more as time goes on. This type of addition can lead to feelings of guilt and severe consequences such as losing a driver’s license, marital problems, bouts of anger and other issues, especially if the addiction has been ongoing or the individual has instances of severe binges.
Often, alcohol and drug addiction and depression and anxiety use are interrelated, meaning many patients start using substances to reduce their depression and many with depression may develop in substance use disorders.
Abrupt cessation of drugs and alcohol can cause major withdrawal symptoms for many people, especially if they have had the addiction for a long period of time.
Substance Use withdrawal symptoms include:
. Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, cramping)
. Hallucinations
. Sweating
. Chills
. Pain
. Anxiety
. Tremors
. Dilated pupils
. Seizures
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
For years, medical professionals have been helping patients overcome addictions with medically assisted treatments that block areas of the brain that control addiction. For example, the drug Naloxone can block opiate receptors, reversing overdose. Naltrexone can reduce the desire to drink. Buprenorphine and Methadone can be used to combate opiod use disorders. Combining treatments for anxiety and/or depression with Alcohol/Substance Use Disorders can have great success if treated by a specialist uniquely trained in Dual Diagnosis Treatment, such as a Board Certified Addiction Psychaitrist.
Treating Both Depression and Addiction Together is Key
Treating the addiction and depression simultaneously is critical for success and for overall health. If depression is left untreated it can have severe consequences including suicidal tendencies. When depression is left untreated when a person is battling addiction, the stress and anxiety can make it difficult to overcome substance use disorders.
According to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
Medication-assisted treatment is used in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies under the direct supervision of trained and regulated practitioners. Research shows that a combination of medication and therapy can successfully treat these disorders, and for some people struggling with addiction, MAT can help sustain recovery.1
The prescribed medication operates to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the adverse effects of the abused drug. Medications used in MAT are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and MAT programs are clinically driven and tailored to meet each patient’s needs. Caution needs to be taken when combining MAT with certain anxiety medications, and only under a physician’s supervision. Anxiety medications come in many classes, and certain classes can contribute to sedation and respiratory depression. Types of anxiety treatment medications include derivatives of Benzodiazepine, such as Xanax or valium.1
With triple board certification in general psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and forensic psychiatry, Dr. Richard J. Capiola has been in practice for 27 years. During his training at Tulane Medical School and UCLA, Dr. Capiola developed a keen interest in the treatment of depression and anxiety overlapping with drug and alcohol abuse. This focus led to his role as chief medical officer for Oglethorpe Inc., which specializes in the treatment of mental health and addiction. He has been instrumental in the clinical development and oversight of 12 specialty treatment centers in five states.
Dr. Capiola’s specialties include adult and adolescent psychiatry, treatment of anxiety, depression, and substance use problems, and forensic psychiatry, where he evaluates patients with legal issues related to mental health.
Dr. Capiola is the chief of psychiatry for Physicians Regional Medical Center and was the medical director for the Wilough at Naples for many years. He’s served 10 years with The Joint Commission, which evaluates hospitals nationwide for quality of care and safety.
Dr. Capiola was the featured neuropsychiatrist in the recent book “Don’t Give Up On Me” with Darryl Strawberry. His confidential private practice focuses on using each individual’s inherent strengths to achieve the goal of living a healthy, well-balanced life.
Richard J. Capiola, M.D.
239.649.7494
704 Goodlette Frank Road North, Suite 222
Naples, Florida 34102
Reference:
1. SAMSHA, (2017). Medication Assisted Treatment, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, US Dept of Health and Human Services, https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/treatment