The Link Between Bipolar Disorder and Substance Use

​​Did you know that at least 40% of individuals with bipolar disorder will also experience a substance use disorder (SUD) in their lifetime?

There’s a well-documented connection between bipolar disorder and substance use. Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, from intense highs (referred to as ‘mania’) to deep lows (otherwise known as depression). Meanwhile, substance use disorder occurs when someone continues to use drugs or alcohol despite the harm it causes to themselves and their loved ones. When a person is diagnosed with both conditions, it’s known as a dual diagnosis.

Causes and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects people of all genders, backgrounds, and ethnicities. It involves alternating episodes of mania and depression.

While the exact cause of bipolar disorder isn’t fully understood, experts believe it develops due to a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Traumatic experiences—such as grief, violence, or even substance use—can trigger or worsen symptoms.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder 

Bipolar disorder can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Manic episodes: High energy, racing thoughts, impulsivity, and risky behavior
• Depressive episodes: Fatigue, sadness, hopelessness, and thoughts of suicide or self-harm
• Psychotic symptoms: Delusions, hallucinations, and paranoia
• Impulsive behaviors: Reckless spending, substance use, and erratic decision-making

These symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life. Many individuals turn to substances as a way to escape or self-medicate, which increases the risk of developing a substance use disorder.

The Connection Between Bipolar Disorder and Substance Use

What is a dual diagnosis?

A dual diagnosis means someone has both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Also known as co-occurring disorders, dual diagnoses are especially common with conditions like bipolar disorder and SUD.

Self-medication and dual disorders 

One reason bipolar disorder and substance use often go hand in hand is self-medication. Many individuals use substances like alcohol, opioids, or stimulants to manage symptoms of mania, depression, and anxiety.

How does brain chemistry influence bipolar and substance use disorder?

Bipolar disorder and substance use disorder both involve disruptions in brain chemistry. You may misuse substances to stabilize your mood, but in reality, drugs and alcohol alter brain function, making symptoms worse over time.

At first, substances may seem to provide relief. However, as tolerance builds, you need more of the substance to achieve the same effect. This reality can lead to addiction, further destabilizing your mood and worsening your mental health.

Additionally, studies show that substance use can trigger or intensify bipolar episodes, making it even harder to manage the disorder.

Behavioral and environmental factors

Life experiences also play a role in the connection between bipolar disorder and substance use. Stress, trauma, and peer influence can all contribute to substance use and worsen bipolar symptoms.

For example:

• If you have a history of trauma, you may turn to substances for emotional relief.
• Chronic stress can increase mood swings, making you more vulnerable to addiction.
• If your social circle normalizes substance, you may be encouraged to rely on this unhealthy coping mechanism.

Challenges of Dual Diagnosis

One of the biggest challenges of dual diagnosis is that symptoms of one disorder can mask or mimic the other. For example, manic episodes can look similar to substance-induced highs, making it difficult to distinguish between the two.

Many individuals seek treatment for substance use but don’t address their underlying mental health condition. Without treating both disorders together, long-term recovery becomes incredibly difficult.

That’s why it’s essential to receive specialized dual diagnosis treatment that targets both conditions at the same time.

Benefits of Residential Treatment Centers

At Jackson House, we specialize in residential treatment for dual diagnosis, offering integrated care for both bipolar disorder and substance use disorder.

Why choose residential treatment for bipolar disorder and substance abuse?

• A safe and supportive environment: Our beautifully designed facilities provide a welcoming space for recovery.
• Compassionate, no-nonsense staff: Our team is here to support you without judgment.
• 24/7 support: Around-the-clock care helps manage symptoms and prevent relapse.
• Comprehensive therapies: We offer a range of evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reframe negative thoughts, medication to stabilize mood and reduce cravings, and peer support to connect with others in similar positions.

Find a Residential Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center Near You

Successful substance use treatment requires an understanding of how it connects to mental health disorders like bipolar disorder.

If you or a loved one is struggling with the dual burden of bipolar disorder and SUD, help is available.

Take the first step toward lasting recovery today. Contact Jackson House to learn how our compassionate team in Southern California and Oregon can help.