Understanding the Challenges

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a complicated but treatable mental health condition where a person struggles to manage their substance use, even when it leads to negative consequences. Co-occurring disorders, or dual diagnosis, on the other hand, refers to when someone has a SUD and one or more mental health disorders at the same time. 

Most people with co-occurring disorders often turn to substances like alcohol or drugs as a way to cope, but in reality, these substances can actually make their mental health challenges even worse.

People with co-occurring disorders often deal with a variety of mental health conditions, such as:

• Anxiety disorders
• Depression 
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

The Connection Between Substance Abuse and Problematic Technology Use

Substance abuse and problematic technology use really have a lot in common, with each condition often amplifying the challenges of the other. While technology can provide a temporary distraction from cravings or emotional distress, excessive use can fuel unhealthy behaviors and create additional barriers to recovery.

Studies show that people with substance use disorders often find themselves getting hooked on technology, like playing games for too long, scrolling through social media, or browsing the internet excessively. The quick satisfaction we get from these platforms can feel a lot like the effects of substance use, lighting up the same reward pathways in our brains. When these behaviors overlap, it can create a cycle where one just keeps fueling the other.

For a lot of people, technology acts as a coping mechanism to escape stress or manage emotions. However, excessive screen time can contribute to feelings of isolation, disconnection, and loneliness—factors that are closely tied to substance abuse. 

The fast-paced, validation-seeking world of technology can also make people more impulsive and emotionally unstable, which is often connected to issues with substance use disorders. This can cause people to lose sight of their recovery goals and chase after immediate rewards, both online and offline.

While technology isn’t the root cause of substance abuse, it can act as a barrier to recovery when overused. Addressing the relationship between these two challenges is essential for building a sustainable path to healing and emotional well-being.