The Connection Between Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Have you been struggling to maintain your sobriety or manage symptoms of depression and anxiety? There is a substance abuse and mental health app for that. Really. In today’s digital age, there are smartphone apps that can help you stay on track with your recovery and wellness goals. You no longer have to go it alone. Whether you need support connecting with a sponsor or therapist, logging your mood and triggers, meditating, journaling or finding local support groups, there are apps to help you on your journey to improved health and happiness. Keep reading to discover some of the top-rated and most helpful apps for managing substance abuse, depression, and anxiety. They may just change your life.
Top 5 Apps for Managing Addiction and Mental Health Issues
The truth is, substance abuse and mental health issues often go hand in hand. Many people who struggle with addiction are also coping with conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD or bipolar disorder. The relationship between the two is complex, but some factors that connect them include:
Genetics. Certain mental health conditions and a tendency toward addiction can be inherited or linked genetically. If addiction or mental illness runs in your family, you may be at higher risk.
Trauma. Experiencing a traumatic event can increase the likelihood of both substance abuse and psychiatric issues. Using drugs or alcohol to cope with trauma may lead to addiction.
Chemical imbalance. Some drugs alter chemicals in the brain like dopamine that regulate mood and stress. This can worsen or trigger the symptoms of a mental health condition. Likewise, a chemical imbalance in the brain may drive someone to use drugs or alcohol for self-medication.
No matter the cause, the links between addiction and mental health are strong. The good news is, treatment for co-occurring disorders, or “dual diagnosis,” can be effective. Options like therapy, medication, lifestyle changes and support groups help address both conditions at once.
Don’t hesitate to speak to a medical professional if you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. There are many resources and paths to recovery, so take that important first step. Help and hope are out there.
Using Apps to Complement Traditional Treatment for Substance Abuse and Mental Illness
When struggling with addiction or mental health issues, apps can be a helpful tool for managing your condition. Here are five of the top apps for supporting your recovery and wellbeing:
Headspace – This popular meditation and mindfulness app offers guided meditations for anxiety, stress, focus, and sleep. Use it to develop skills for coping with cravings, difficult emotions, and maintaining balance.
I Am Sober – Stay on track with your sobriety by using this free app to track your progress, connect with a support network, and get daily motivation. Set custom goals and earn milestones to stay motivated. The social feature allows you to cheer on others and ask for support when you need it.
Happify – Improve your emotional health and resilience using science-based activities and games. This app provides quick tools for overcoming negative thoughts, developing positive habits, and boosting your overall happiness and life satisfaction.
Talkspace – Connect with a licensed therapist for unlimited messaging support. This convenient option lets you message a therapist whenever you need to for a set monthly fee. It’s a flexible, affordable way to get professional help from anywhere.
Calm – Ease symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression using relaxing music, nature sounds, breathing exercises, and sleep stories. This popular wellness app provides a variety of peaceful audio tracks along with timed meditation and mindfulness exercises for improving your mental and emotional state.
Using mobile apps to support your recovery and wellbeing is convenient, affordable and can help motivate your continued progress. Explore different options to find what works for your situation and needs. Every small step you take to improve your health and stability matters. Stay strong and keep moving forward!
