Many people experience bipolar disorder and addiction at the same time. This combination—known as a dual diagnosis—can feel overwhelming, especially when the symptoms of each condition feed into and worsen the other. These are also referred to as co-occurring disorders, and they require integrated, compassionate care that addresses both challenges simultaneously.
At Discover Recovery, we understand how complex the relationship between bipolar disorder and addiction can be. That’s why we offer dual diagnosis treatment designed to help you build stability and reclaim your life, one step at a time.
What’s the link between bipolar disorder and addiction?
Bipolar disorder involves shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels that range from manic highs to depressive lows. During a manic episode, someone might feel unusually energized, sleep little, experience racing thoughts, or act impulsively. These manic phases can quickly give way to periods of deep depression, marked by:
- Feelings of hopelessness or persistent sadness
- Fatigue or low energy
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
These intense mood swings can be so disruptive that they lead people to turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope. At first, these substances may seem to provide temporary relief. But over time, they often worsen mood instability and increase the severity of symptoms.
In other cases, substance use may come first. Because drugs and alcohol impact the same brain systems affected in bipolar disorder, they can sometimes bring underlying symptoms to the surface, especially in individuals with a family history or other risk factors. This is another way co-occurring disorders can develop.
Why does dual diagnosis treatment matter?
When someone is living with bipolar disorder and addiction, both conditions must be treated together for recovery to be effective. Treating one while ignoring the other often leads to relapse or recurring symptoms. Dual diagnosis treatment is specifically designed to address co-occurring disorders in a coordinated way, ensuring that care for both mental and substance use challenges is integrated and supportive.
At Discover Recovery, our dual diagnosis treatment includes:
- Individual therapy to help you understand the emotional and behavioral patterns tied to both bipolar disorder and addiction
- Medication support to stabilize mood and manage symptoms during detox and beyond
- Medically supervised detox to ensure a safe and supported start to your recovery
- Group therapy, where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through and begin building your support system
- Skills training and relapse prevention so you can recognize triggers and maintain long-term recovery
Every part of treatment is designed with your unique needs in mind. We don’t treat symptoms in isolation—we support the whole person.
Your diagnosis does not define you
Having bipolar disorder and addiction doesn’t define who you are. It’s just part of your story. Dual diagnosis treatment helps you move beyond labels and focus on your goals, strengths, and future. At Discover Recovery, we believe every person deserves a care plan that reflects who they are, not just what they’re struggling with.
Begin healing from co-occurring disorders at Discover Recovery
Living with bipolar disorder and addiction can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. The proper care can help you find stability, reconnect with yourself, and build a hopeful future.
At Discover Recovery, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way. Whether you need inpatient support or an outpatient program that fits your lifestyle, our team is ready to help you take the next step.
Contact Discover Recovery today by calling 360.472.4711 or completing our online form. Healing starts here.