DrugRehab.com provides information regarding illicit and prescription drug
addiction, the various populations at risk for the disease, current statistics and trends, and
psychological disorders that often accompany addiction. You will also find information on spotting
the signs and symptoms of substance use and hotlines for immediate assistance.
Treatment for addiction takes many forms and depends on the needs of the individual.
In accordance with the American Society of Addiction Medicine, we offer information on
outcome-oriented treatment that adheres to an established continuum of care. In this section, you
will find information and resources related to evidence-based treatment models, counseling and
therapy and payment and insurance options.
Treatment for addiction takes many forms and depends on the needs of the
individual. In accordance with the American Society of Addiction Medicine, we offer
information on outcome-oriented treatment that adheres to an established continuum of
care. In this section, you will find information and resources related to evidence-based
treatment models, counseling and therapy and payment and insurance options.
The recovery process doesn't end after 90 days of treatment. The transition back to
life outside of rehab is fraught with the potential for relapse. Aftercare resources such as
12-step groups, sober living homes and support for family and friends promote a life rich with
rewarding relationships and meaning.
Our community offers unique perspectives on lifelong recovery and substance use
prevention, empowering others through stories of strength and courage. From people in active
recovery to advocates who have lost loved ones to the devastating disease of addiction, our
community understands the struggle and provides guidance born of personal experience.
Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression influenced by changes in seasons. Generally, the disorder occurs in the late fall or early winter and ends during the spring and summer. However, depressive episodes can still occur during warmer months.
The condition is closely associated with addiction. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 20 percent of people diagnosed with a mood disorder such as seasonal affective disorder also have a substance abuse problem.
When seasonal affective disorder occurs in the fall or winter, people often experience weight gain, low energy or appetite changes. Individuals who suffer from the disorder in the spring or summer may deal with appetite and weight problems in addition to agitation, anxiety and trouble sleeping.
Addiction and seasonal affective disorder share certain characteristics — such as agitation, anxiety and feelings of hopelessness — and both are influenced by genetic and environmental factors. For individuals in recovery or those with an active addiction, seasonal affective disorder can be especially dangerous.
Seasonal affective disorder can lead to restlessness, insomnia and anxiety — symptoms related to addiction. The disorder also lowers a person’s ability to handle stress. People susceptible to the condition may experience stress that makes it difficult to work long hours or meet deadlines. Continuous or chronic stress can result in addiction. In addition, people recovering from substance abuse disorders may relapse if they don’t practice healthy techniques for managing stress.
Substance Use Worsens Depression
The inability to handle stress can cause people to sink deeper into depression. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, seasonal affective disorder can cause long-term depression or bipolar disorder. Additionally, drug or alcohol use can worsen depression and lead to suicidal ideations in people with seasonal affective disorder.
Self-Medication May Occur
Depressive disorders such as seasonal affective disorder can cause people to use alcohol to self-medicate, which involves treating self-recognized or self-diagnosed health problems with drugs or alcohol. People with the condition may drink or use illicit drugs to alleviate feelings of seasonal depression. This unhealthy behavior can result in addiction or worsen an existing substance use disorder.
Mood Disorders Disrupt Your Circadian Rhythm
Depression and other mood disorders can affect a person’s circadian rhythm, the biological cycle that influences sleepiness and alertness throughout the day. In people with seasonal affective disorder, a close relationship exists between circadian rhythms, mood and sleep regulation. Sleep problems can affect substance use, especially among individuals with addiction.
Seasonal Affective Disorder and Drinking Problems
Individuals with seasonal affective disorder may be prone to alcohol problems. A 2017 study published in the journal Psychiatry Research found a strong relationship between seasonal affective disorder and alcoholism. People with seasonal affective disorder spend much time indoors during the winter, increasing their likelihood of drinking.
Treatment Options for Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal affective disorder often affects teens and adults, and it occurs more often in women than men. Individuals who live in areas with long winter nights have an increased risk for developing the condition.
But the disorder can be managed. At home, individuals with seasonal affective disorder should try eating healthy foods, getting proper sleep, taking medications provided by a physician, exercising regularly and engaging in activities that make them happy.
Turning to drugs or alcohol to deal with symptoms of the condition can worsen depression and lead to relapse. People with addiction should also seek counseling to cope with feelings of depression caused by seasonal affective disorder.
Medical Disclaimer: DrugRehab.com aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
Matt Gonzales is a writer and researcher for DrugRehab.com. He graduated with a degree in journalism from East Carolina University and began his professional writing career in 2011. Matt covers the latest drug trends and shares inspirational stories of people who have overcome addiction. Certified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in health literacy, Matt leverages his experience in addiction research to provide hope to those struggling with substance use disorders.
Calls will be answered by a qualified admissions representative with Advanced Recovery Systems (ARS), the owners of DrugRehab.com. We look forward to helping you!
Phone calls to treatment center listings not associated with ARS will go directly to those centers. DrugRehab.com and ARS are not responsible for those calls.
