Schizophrenia and Substance Abuse Treatment in Idaho
Ever wondered what schizophrenia is and how it relates to substance abuse? You have come to the right place. Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects your thoughts, feelings, and behavior and can be more challenging when combined with addiction. The good news is that schizophrenia is treatable. In this article, we’ll explore what schizophrenia means, how it connects with drugs and alcohol, and the latest treatment options for co-occurring disorders to help you or your loved one live a healthier and more fulfilling life.
What Causes Schizophrenia?
While the exact cause of schizophrenia is unknown, most experts think genetics, brain chemistry, and the environment are involved. The current thinking is that schizophrenia arises from a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors that work together to disrupt brain development. The more risk factors a person has, the greater the likelihood of developing schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia tends to run in families, so having a close relative with the condition increases your risk. Identical twins share very similar genes, and if one twin has schizophrenia, the other twin has about a 50% chance of developing it too. This shows that genetics certainly play a role.
Schizophrenia may be linked to imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are messengers in the brain that help control many functions, including perception, mood, and behavior. An imbalance in certain neurotransmitters, especially dopamine and glutamate, may contribute to the development of schizophrenia.
Certain environmental factors may also contribute to the risk of schizophrenia in genetically predisposed people. For example, exposure to viruses or malnutrition before birth, complications during birth, childhood trauma, or severe psychological and social stressors are linked to increased risk. Drug use during the teen years or young adulthood may trigger the onset or relapse of schizophrenia in some people.
What are the Types of Schizophrenia?
There are three main types of schizophrenia, each with its own set of symptoms:
This is the most common type. If you have paranoid schizophrenia, you have strong, enduring beliefs that others are trying to harm or spy on you in some way. You suffer from delusions of persecution and paranoia. You tend to be suspicious and withdrawn. These misconceptions can be quite complex and resilient to reason or other opposing facts.
Paranoid schizophrenia typically involves hallucinations such as hearing voices that comment on your actions, criticize you, or provide commands. These auditory hallucinations can contribute to your paranoia and further strengthen your belief in the reality of your delusions.
Hebephrenic schizophrenia also referred to as “Disorganized Schizophrenia,” commonly emerges during adolescence or early adulthood, typically between the ages of 15 and 25. With this type, your speech and behavior are disorganized or difficult to understand. You may laugh or giggle at inappropriate times, dress in strange ways, or act silly or childish. There are instances where you show limited or absent emotional responsiveness in your nonverbal communication.
Disorganized schizophrenia can significantly affect an individual’s ability to engage in goal-directed activities. They often struggle with initiating tasks, such as cooking a meal, and face challenges completing them. It greatly hinders independent functioning and makes it exceptionally difficult to carry out daily activities coherently and efficiently.
This rare type causes you to be in a stupor or motionless and silent for long periods. You may hold a rigid pose for hours or follow commands like a robot. Some people with catatonic schizophrenia may also exhibit agitated or excited behavior like strange posturing, grimacing, or repeating meaningless phrases.
Catatonic schizophrenia is diagnosed based on the presence of characteristic symptoms, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). A comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, including a thorough psychiatric assessment, medical history, and ruling out other possible causes of symptoms, is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
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What are the Signs and Symptoms of Schizophrenia?
If someone you know is exhibiting signs of schizophrenia, the earlier they get help, the better. The following are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Disorganized speech or behavior. Do they frequently jump from one topic to another or act in ways that seem strange?
- Delusions or false beliefs. Are they convinced of things that just aren’t true, like the government is monitoring them or aliens are controlling their thoughts?
- Do they see, hear, smell, or feel things that aren’t there? The most common type of hallucination is auditory hallucination, which includes hearing voices.
- Lack of emotional expression. Do they speak in a flat, emotionless tone or seem unable to express joy, sadness, or empathy?
- Social withdrawal. Are they pulling away from family and friends or no longer engaging in activities they used to enjoy?
- Difficulty concentrating or following a plan. Do they struggle to pay attention, stay on task or logically organize their thoughts?
- Sleep problems. Are they sleeping too much or too little, or keeping irregular hours? Changes in sleep and energy levels can also be a symptom.
The more symptoms present, and the more severe they are, the more likely it is the person may have schizophrenia or a related psychotic disorder. But only a psychiatrist or psychologist can make an official diagnosis. With proper treatment like medication and therapy, many people with schizophrenia can live healthy, productive lives. If someone you care about is showing symptoms, don’t hesitate to talk to them about seeing a doctor. Their mental health and safety should be a top priority.
How Schizophrenia and Substance Abuse Co-Occur?
Schizophrenia and substance abuse often co-occur, meaning they frequently appear together in the same individual. Research shows that approximately half of the individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia have a reported history of substance abuse. The relationship between schizophrenia and substance abuse is complex and can have various factors at play.
There is evidence to suggest that cannabis or marijuana use, particularly heavy and prolonged use, may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia or trigger psychotic symptoms in individuals who are already vulnerable. The exact mechanisms underlying this relationship are not fully understood, but it is believed that the active compound in marijuana, THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), can affect brain chemistry and interact with the dopamine system, potentially exacerbating psychotic symptoms.
The relationship between prescription opioids and schizophrenia is less clear. While opioids are primarily associated with pain management, their long-term use can lead to various mental health issues, including exacerbation of psychotic symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia. Misuse of prescription drugs can also contribute to substance use disorders and complicate the treatment of schizophrenia.
Cocaine use can worsen the symptoms of schizophrenia and increase the risk of psychotic episodes. Cocaine acts as a powerful stimulant, affecting neurotransmitters such as dopamine, and can result in paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions. Additionally, the combined use of cocaine and antipsychotic medication can interfere with the effectiveness of treatment for schizophrenia.
Methamphetamine use is associated with an increased risk of psychosis and can worsen symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia. Methamphetamine is a potent stimulant that affects the dopamine system in the brain. It can lead to paranoia, aggression, hallucinations, and other psychotic symptoms. Substance use disorder involving meth can complicate the management of schizophrenia and lead to poor treatment outcomes.
Heroin use has been associated with an increased risk of psychosis and can worsen symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia. Heroin is an opioid drug that affects the brain’s reward system and can lead to cognitive impairments and mental health issues. Substance use disorder involving heroin can have detrimental effects on the course and treatment of schizophrenia.
How to Prevent Schizophrenia?
Currently, there is no known way to prevent schizophrenia entirely. However, early detection and intervention can help manage the symptoms and improve outcomes for individuals who develop the disorder. Here are some strategies that can contribute to early detection and potentially reduce the impact of schizophrenia:
- Education and awareness: Increasing public awareness about the signs and symptoms of schizophrenia can help individuals, their families, and healthcare professionals recognize early warning signs. Timely intervention is essential for improved outcomes.
- Early identification and intervention: Prompt recognition of the early signs of schizophrenia and early referral to mental health professionals can lead to timely intervention. This can involve psychoeducation, counseling, and medication management, helping to manage symptoms and improve overall functioning.
- Access to mental healthcare: Ensuring access to mental health services, including affordable and quality healthcare, can facilitate early detection and intervention. This includes regular mental health check-ups and the availability of treatment options for individuals at risk or experiencing early symptoms.
- Reduction of risk factors: While it may not be possible to eliminate all risk factors associated with schizophrenia, addressing certain modifiable risk factors can be beneficial. This can include promoting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding substance abuse, managing stress, and providing support for pregnant women to minimize prenatal complications.
- Supportive environments: Creating supportive environments for individuals with schizophrenia can play a significant role in their overall well-being. This involves reducing stigma, promoting social inclusion, and providing access to housing, employment, and community support services.
Treating Co-Occurring Schizophrenia and Addiction
Treating co-occurring schizophrenia and substance abuse requires an integrated approach that addresses both conditions. Here are some of the most effective methods used to treat this condition:
The use of antipsychotic medications can be beneficial in reducing symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking. It is important to communicate openly with your doctor about any substance use, as some antipsychotics may have interactions with drugs and alcohol. This information will help your doctor prescribe the most appropriate medications and dosages for your specific needs.
Both individual therapy and group therapy play vital roles in the recovery process for schizophrenia. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a highly effective approach that enables individuals to change maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. Through CBT, individuals learn practical strategies to manage symptoms, improve coping skills, and enhance overall functioning.
Motivational interviewing is a therapeutic approach utilized to cultivate motivation for change and empower individuals to make constructive changes in their lives. Additionally, family therapy provides education and support not only to the individual with schizophrenia but also to their loved ones, helping to improve communication, understanding, and the overall support system.
Dual diagnosis treatment programs or integrated care addresses schizophrenia and addiction simultaneously. This type of treatment provides psychiatric services, substance abuse counseling, medication management, and social support.
Making positive lifestyle changes will support your recovery. Try to:
- Avoid triggers like people or places that encourage substance use.
- Build a reliable support network of people who encourage your sobriety.
- Develop new hobbies and routines that don’t involve drugs or alcohol.
- Make an effort to get enough sleep, eat healthily, and exercise regularly.
- Consider joining a local support group. Helping others in recovery can help maintain your own.
Relapse is common, especially in the early stages of treatment and afterward. That’s why it’s important to prepare a relapse prevention plan. It’s important to know your warning signs and have coping strategies in place. Call your doctor or sponsor right away if you experience a relapse into psychosis or substance abuse. The sooner you get back on track with treatment, the better.
With a commitment to treatment, connecting with others, and making positive lifestyle changes, recovery from co-occurring schizophrenia and addiction is possible. Staying motivated and maintaining hope will serve you well on your journey to health and happiness.
Eagle Creek Can Help You Get Your Life Back on Track
At Eagle Creek, we empower individuals to regain control of their lives, build resilience, and develop effective coping strategies. With a focus on recovery and long-term success, our specialized team is dedicated to helping individuals with schizophrenia achieve their goals, enhance their quality of life, and thrive in their journey toward mental health and wellness.
Remember, treatment for schizophrenia often involves a combination of medication, therapy, support groups, and lifestyle adjustments. Seeking out a mental health professional that can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on available resources and treatment options is crucial for your healing. We can help! Contact us today!
Clinical Director
Kendall Maloof is the clinical director at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has held multiple leadership roles before settling here at Eagle Creek. Kendall received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2016. Her career in mental and behavioral health began in 2014 when she took up internships in both the nonprofit and for profit sectors. She interned at multiple reputable companies, such as The Living Success Center and 449 Recovery in California.
In 2019, Kendall became the clinical director of Sunsets Recovery for Woman, a dual diagnosis program in southern California. Kendall is a natural leader. She has an incredible ability to problem solve and stay calm in any situation. Kendall never fails to show up when she is needed, and her calm demeanor makes her team and clients feel at ease. Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery is proud to have Kendall as our clinical director.
