In recent decades, countries around the world have grown more aware of the importance of mental health. They have also become more aware of the need for effective mental health and addiction treatment. However, much work remains to be done in highlighting these issues. The annual event known as World Mental Health Day seeks to address this ongoing challenge.
At Memphis Recovery Centers, we’re keenly aware of the need for affordable, effective mental health and addiction treatment. That’s why, every year, we support the efforts of World Mental Health Day. It’s also why we specialize in quality treatment for substance problems and co-occurring mental disorders. Celebrate World Mental Health Day by reaching out to our team of mental health professionals by calling 901-272-7751 or completing our online form.
What Is World Mental Health Day?
World Mental Health Day takes place on the same day each year, October 10th. On that day, organizations across the globe hold events designed to increase mental health awareness. World Mental Health Day is a joint project of the World Health Organization and the World Federation for Mental Health.
In the U.S., Mental Health Day forms just part of the October awareness effort. The week before this day is designated as Mental Illness Awareness Week. These two projects are scheduled back-to-back to make it easier to reach large numbers of people.
Mental Health and Addiction
Addiction is a mental health issue. In fact, experts define all forms of addiction and damaging substance abuse as mental illnesses. Why is this the case? While addiction has a strong physical component, it also alters how you:
- Think
- Respond emotionally to daily life events
- Behave from day-to-day
Together, altered thoughts, feelings, and behavior help sustain addiction. Without addressing these issues, you can’t realistically hope to recover. The connection between mental health and addiction helps explain the widespread use of psychotherapy in treatment. Today, therapy plays a role in the treatment of all forms of addiction. In contrast, only some people receive medication as part of their recovery plan.
Trauma and Addiction
There is also a strong link between trauma and addiction. For many people, the lingering effects of a traumatic event serve as motivation for substance abuse. In turn, this act of self-medication increases your chances of getting addicted. The right kind of therapy will help you cope with the effects of lingering trauma. As a result, it will also aid your overall quest for recovery.
The Importance of Dual Diagnosis Rehab
You are affected by dual diagnosis if your substance problems occur at the same time as a separate mental disorder. This is not a rare or unexpected combination. If you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol, you have a roughly 50/50 chance of experiencing it.
Dual diagnosis rehab requires different treatment than addiction does by itself. That’s true because you also must get help for the other mental disorder affecting you. As a rule, this will:
- Take more time
- Require more personal effort
- Increase the responsibilities of your treatment team
Still, evidence shows that you can recover with help from a well-designed dual diagnosis plan. This fact holds true even for cases of severe addiction and additional disorders.
Find Support for Mental Health and Addiction at Memphis Recovery Centers
World Mental Health Day is a highlight of the October calendar at Memphis Recovery Centers. However, our commitment to high-quality, affordable mental health services extends throughout the year. We feature a full range of options for the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. Regardless of the source of your problems, our customized programs provide essential support.
We also specialize in treating the joint symptoms of dual diagnosis. That includes help for any combination of substance abuse issues and separate mental health disorders. Call us today at 901-272-7751 or fill out our online form for more information on our many recovery options.
