Addiction to substances like alcohol or drugs was largely seen as a moral failing or character flaw. However, with numerous breakthroughs in scientific research, people have started to view substance use disorders (SUDs) as chronic diseases characterized by a significant deterioration in health and social function and loss of voluntary control over substance use. Read more
When an individual struggle with a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental illness simultaneously, it is called dual diagnosis. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in any given year, at least 7-9 million people grapple with a co-occurring disorder. Moreover, 50 percent of the population suffering from an alcohol and drug addiction are also inflicted with a mental illness, such as trauma, depression, personality disorders, anxiety and depression. Read more
Impulsivity is a common characteristic in both borderline personality disorder (BPD) and substance use disorder (SUD), and the presence of one condition can have a direct impact on the severity of the other. Abusing substances such as alcohol and drugs can aggravate the symptoms of BPD including suicide ideation and risk of self-harm. Conversely, the symptoms and behaviors associated with addiction to substances can be worsened due to BPD. Read more
The importance of mental health as a key component of one’s overall well-being is amassing global support and awareness. This is primarily because of the fact that more and more people are getting aware of the close relationship between mental health and overall well-being. Slowly but surely the rough tides are turning in favor of those living with a mental disorder due to the above-mentioned reason. Compared to the earlier times, a new consciousness is rising that is tolerant and empathetic toward individuals who suffer from a mental illness. Read more
Sociopathic behavior, an antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), is a mental disorder in which individuals exhibit traits such as complete disregard for others, aggression, erratic conduct and frequent violation of the law. Sociopathic behavior is often thought to be the same as psychopathy. Although both are forms of ASPD, sociopathic behavior is considered less severe than psychopathic behavior. According to a school of thought, psychopathy is a result of genetic predispositions whereas sociopathic behavior is the result of environmental factors. Read more