Substance Use and Mental Health Conditions

Substance Use and Mental Health Conditions

British Columbia Specific Information

All opioids, including prescribed medications such as morphine and oxycodone, can be addictive. If you are concerned about your use of opioids, speak with your health care provider. For more information visit HeretoHelp.

Individual, family and small group counselling is available to people of all ages who are directly or indirectly affected by alcohol and other drug use. For more information call the 24-hour BC Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service in the Lower Mainland at 604-660-9382 or toll-free anywhere in B.C. at 1-800-663-1441, or visit our Mental Health and Substance Use web pages. 

To find mental health and substance use support services in your area, search the HealthLinkBC Directory or contact your local health authority.

Overview

Some people who have substance use disorder also have a mental health condition. Doctors call this a dual diagnosis. You need to treat both conditions to fully recover.

Mental health conditions that may occur with substance use disorder include:

  • Depression.
  • Bipolar disorder.
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Schizophrenia.

Either condition may come first. Substance use disorder may lead to symptoms such as depression or anxiety. Or people with mental health conditions may use substances to:

  • Feel normal and accepted. You may use substances to help you feel like you don't have a mental health condition.
  • Self-medicate. You may use substances to try to reduce anxiety, depression, or sleep problems.

It's best to treat the mental health condition and substance use disorder at the same time. Treating both conditions gives you a better chance of a full recovery and less chance of returning to substance use.

Credits

Adaptation Date: 10/10/2023

Adapted By: HealthLink BC

Adaptation Reviewed By: HealthLink BC