Mental Health and Addiction

Mental Health and Addiction

Mental health professionals often deal with addiction. In fact, substance abuse and dependence disorders are characterized by the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) published by the APA (American Psychiatric Association). Also, many mental disorders are comorbid with substance abuse disorders. Persons with severe substance dependence often have low motivation for other activities, the drug intake being their only pleasurable pastime.

For example, in subjects using marijuana or cannabis on a regular basis, many stay intoxicated throughout the day. In recreational users, smoking marijuana happens from time to time, however in severely addicted users more substance is used to the point of most awake time spent either using the drug, being under the influence or searching for the substance. What is more, is that many people fail to realize that despite being a herb, hemp or cannabis is no longer simply a plant after it has undergone special processing. Indeed, much of the drug sold today undergoes chemical processing which makes it much more potent in terms of psychedelic effects, but also much more dangerous.

Mental illness can lead to addiction. Illustration by Elena

Further, several rehabilitation centres and recovery therapies exist to help people battle their addictions. From self-help groups such as Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) to pharmacotherapy such as methadone for heroin replacement. Therapies may also be administered in a group or individual basis.

Perhaps the most difficult part of rehabilitation and recovery from drug or alcohol abuse and dependence are withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can be psychological or physical, and range from mild to severe depending on the substance used. In extreme cases, physician monitoring is crucial in overseeing the aftermath of quitting using a drug due to dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

If you or someone you know has problems with substance use, abuse or dependence, the following organizations in Ontario may help with recovery (list non-exhaustive):

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)

Phone: 416-595-6111 (info line)

Metro Addiction Assessment Referral Service (MAARS)

Phone: 416-599-1448

Toronto Western Hospital, Addictions Outpatient Services

Phone: 416-603-5735