A substance induced mood disorder is a mental health condition impacting mood that stems from the physiological effects of substances, medications, toxins, or even heavy metals. If the substance or drug has a negative side effect, it may cause drug-induced depression or substance induced mania.
Those who are more likely to develop a substance induced disorder are those who misuse alcohol, cocaine, opioids, or other mind-altering substances. Commonly, mood disorders and alcohol use co-occur frequently.
Substance induced mood disorder symptoms mimic other mental health disorders, such as major depressive disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or even schizophrenia.
Some medications and substances or chemicals that have the potential to cause substance induced mood disorder symptoms include:
According to the DSM-5, an individual would meet the criteria for a diagnosis of a substance induced mental disorder if they are experiencing:
It is important to determine if a substance or medication is causing a substance induced disorder, especially if the medication is prescribed. Therefore, you should first consult your doctor or a medical professional if you believe you are experiencing medication-induced depression or other substance induced disorders.
Drug-induced bipolar disorder may also benefit from mood stabilizers such as olanzapine. The treatment for substance induced mood disorder symptoms depends on the type and amount of the substance used.
Especially if there are substances such as alcohol or illicit drugs involved, having support is important. This is because things like the overuse of alcohol and mood disorders have a high rate of occurring together.
If you believe you or someone you love is suffering from a substance induced depressive disorder or other type of substance induced disorder, the trained professionals at Pacific Beach Health can help. For more information about diagnosis and treatment options, contact Pacific Beach Health today.
Substance induced mood disorder is a mental health condition in which mood symptoms are caused by the physical effects of a substance, medication, toxin, or heavy metal. It can show up as depression, mania, or other mood disturbances. It is most common in people who misuse alcohol, cocaine, opioids, or other mind-altering substances.
Substances that can cause a substance induced mood disorder include alcohol and drugs like cocaine, LSD, and methamphetamine. Some prescription medications, such as those used for heart problems, high blood pressure, pain, or anxiety, can also cause mood symptoms. Exposure to heavy metals like lead or mercury, or toxins like gasoline, paint thinners, or pesticides, can have the same effect.
Yes, alcohol can cause depression, and overuse of alcohol has been shown to increase the risk of alcohol-induced depressive disorder. Mood disorders and alcohol use also frequently occur together. Getting support for both alcohol use and mood symptoms is important for recovery.
Symptoms of substance induced depression include persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness, irritability or agitation, and sleeping too little or too much. People may also experience rapid weight changes, low energy, poor self-esteem, and difficulty concentrating. Increased thoughts of death or suicide are also possible and require immediate support.
You can get help for substance induced mood disorder at Pacific Beach Health, where trained professionals provide support, coping skills, and a safe environment for recovery. Treatment can help improve your overall health by addressing the substances causing your symptoms.