In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the intricate relationship between addiction and mental health, emphasizing that addiction is often a coping mechanism for underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. As we wrap up the fifth and final episode of my miniseries on addictions, I explore various co-occurring mental health conditions that frequently accompany addiction and how they can exacerbate each other.

I discuss the importance of dual diagnosis treatment, which addresses both addiction and mental health simultaneously, providing individuals with the best chance for recovery. Throughout the episode, I highlight specific mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, OCD, and eating disorders, explaining how each can fuel addiction and complicate recovery.

I share personal anecdotes and insights to illustrate the profound impact of trauma and emotional struggles on addiction. By recognizing the connections between these issues, I encourage listeners to seek help not just for addiction but also for the underlying mental health challenges that may be contributing to their struggles.

As we conclude this miniseries, I invite feedback and suggestions for future topics, reminding everyone that recovery is a journey that involves healing deeper emotional wounds. Join me next week as we return to our regular episodes, focusing on setting boundaries and building healthier relationships, particularly within the transgender and LGBTQ+ communities. Thank you for listening, and remember, we can do this together!

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This episode includes a paid partnership with BetterHelp. Click this link, betterhelp.com/drdowney, to get 10% off your first month.

📗 My Books: Enough as I Am (codependency recovery) Enough as I Grow (365 day guide journal). Affiliate disclosure: I am an affiliate parner with Amazon and therefore receive a commission at no cost to you.

📘 Great Books on Codependency

📙My Favorite books:

Daring Greatly by Brenee Brown, It Begins With You by Jillian Turecki, Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras, The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins, Real Self-Care by Pooja Lakshmin.

Affiliate disclosure: I am an affiliate parner with Amazon and therefore receive a commission at no cost to you.

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🎵 Music: Touching The Air by Graceful Movement