When dealing with two different mental health conditions, it can quickly start to feel like your world is growing too big and too overwhelming. When the stress starts to take over, it’s easy to seek out unhealthy coping, spiraling into habits that feed on each other, but do little to actually address the situation at hand.
This is often seen with alcohol misuse and eating disorders. While one may trigger the other in some cases, it is not uncommon for someone to attempt self-medicating with alcohol, or for someone to seek the perceived control that restrictive eating offers, for example. But if these two conditions do co-occur, it is important to get the right help as soon as you can.
What are co-occurring disorders?
Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, refers to when someone experiences a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. These disorders often interact in ways that are complicated, making the overall condition more difficult to diagnose and treat.
For example, someone might suffer from depression or anxiety and also have an addiction to alcohol or drugs. The presence of both types of disorders can complicate treatment, as they often influence each other. For instance, someone might use drugs to cope with emotional pain caused by depression, but this substance use can, in turn, worsen the mental health symptoms.
It’s important to treat both disorders simultaneously to achieve the best outcome. If only one disorder is addressed, the untreated disorder can trigger a relapse of the treated one. Specialized treatment programs that address both mental health issues and substance use are often needed to make sure recovery is long-lasting.
Co-occurring disorders are increasingly recognized in the medical and therapeutic communities, leading to more integrated treatment approaches that consider the interwoven nature of mental health and substance use. This holistic approach helps individuals manage both aspects of their health, leading to more successful long-term recovery and improved overall well-being.
Why do eating disorders and alcohol misuse co-occur?
There are numerous reasons why both eating disorders and alcohol misuse may occur simultaneously.
Shared psychological elements
Both eating disorders and alcohol use disorder can stem from similar underlying psychological issues like low self-esteem, depression, anxiety or a need for control. Individuals may use disordered eating patterns or alcohol as a way to cope with these feelings.
Genetics
Research indicates that there may be a genetic component making some people more susceptible to developing addictive behaviors, whether related to substances like alcohol or behaviors such as disordered eating. Family history of these disorders can increase the risk.
Emotional regulation
Individuals with eating disorders and alcohol use disorder often struggle with regulating emotions. They might use alcohol as a way to numb emotional pain or stress, similarly to how they might use food restriction, binge eating or purging.
Social pressure
Societal ideals and cultural pressures related to body image and social drinking can contribute to both disorders. The pressure to conform to certain body standards can lead to disordered eating, and social norms around drinking may exacerbate alcohol use.
Unhealthy reinforcement
Engaging in both disordered eating and alcohol use can create a cycle of reinforcement. For example, someone may drink alcohol to suppress appetite or cope with guilt after binge eating, which can lead to increased dependence on alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Neurobiology
Both disorders have been linked to imbalances in brain chemicals and reward pathways, affecting how individuals experience pleasure and how they respond to stress. This can predispose them to addictive behaviors.
What do I do if alcohol misuse and eating disorders co-occur?
If you’re dealing with both an eating disorder and an alcohol use disorder, it’s important to know that help is available and recovery is possible. Here are some steps you can take:
Find the right treatment
Reach out to healthcare professionals who specialize in co-occurring disorders. A therapist, psychiatrist or counselor with experience in treating both eating disorders and substance use disorders can provide personalized support and guidance.
Look for treatment programs that address both disorders simultaneously. These programs understand the complex relationship between eating and alcohol use and provide comprehensive care that targets both issues. Make sure these centers provide a thorough medical evaluation. Eating disorders and alcohol use can have serious physical health implications, so it’s important to assess and address any medical concerns.
Therapy and support groups
Engage in therapy sessions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which can help you understand the underlying causes of your behaviors and develop healthier coping strategies.
Consider joining support groups for individuals with similar experiences. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or groups focused on eating disorders can provide community support and reduce feelings of isolation.
Seek support
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand your struggles and encourage your recovery journey. Open communication can help reduce stigma and create a nurturing environment.
Grow in healthy habits
Work on developing new, healthier ways to cope with stress and emotions. This might include mindfulness practices, exercise, journaling or creative activities. Take time to learn more about the disorders and your condition, and what kinds of daily routines will benefit you.
And always be kind to yourself. Recovery can be challenging, and it’s important to acknowledge your efforts and progress, even when setbacks occur. Make sure your goals are achievable, and when you meet them, celebrate!
Remember that reaching out for help is a strong and brave step. The journey to recovery may be difficult, but many people have successfully overcome co-occurring disorders with the right support and treatment.
Looking for more help?
If you are seeking treatment options for co-occurring conditions, Seeds of Hope can help. To learn more, contact us at (610) 679-8262 or fill out an online contact form to get started on your recovery journey today.
