Depression and Addiction Treatment at Luna

Co-Occurring DISORDERS

Depression & Addiction

Depression and substance use disorder often occur together, creating a complex cycle that requires integrated treatment. At Luna, we address both conditions simultaneously for comprehensive healing.

UNDERSTANDING THE RELATIONSHIP

A Two-Way Connection

Depression Can Lead to Substance Use

Many people with depression turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to self-medicate emotional pain, numbness, or hopelessness. Substances may provide temporary relief from depressive symptoms, creating a false sense that they're helping.

The problem: This relief is short-lived, and substance use ultimately worsens depression while creating physical dependence.

Substance Use Can Cause Depression

Chronic substance use alters brain chemistry, disrupting the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood. This can trigger or worsen depression, even in people who weren't previously depressed.

The problem: Withdrawal, life consequences, and brain changes from substance use create or intensify depressive symptoms.

The result is a bidirectional relationship where each condition makes the other worse, creating a cycle that's difficult to break without professional help.

Recognizing Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad. It's a serious medical condition with specific symptoms that interfere with daily life.

Persistent Sadness or Empty Mood

Feeling down, hopeless, or emotionally numb most of the day, nearly every day

Loss of Interest or Pleasure

No longer enjoying activities, hobbies, or relationships that once brought joy

Changes in Sleep Patterns

Insomnia or sleeping too much, difficulty falling or staying asleep

Fatigue and Low Energy

Constant tiredness, feeling drained even with adequate rest

Changes in Appetite or Weight

Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating patterns

Difficulty Concentrating

Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things

Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt

Excessive self-criticism, feeling like a burden to others

Thoughts of Death or Suicide

Recurrent thoughts about death, suicidal ideation, or suicide attempts

Why Both Conditions Must Be Treated

Treating addiction without addressing depression leaves the door open for relapse. When depressive symptoms return after achieving sobriety, the temptation to self-medicate again becomes overwhelming.

Similarly, treating depression alone while ignoring substance dependence means the person continues to use substances that actively worsen their depression and prevent medications or therapy from working effectively.

Integrated treatment is essential because each condition influences the other. At Luna, our dual diagnosis program ensures your therapist and psychiatric provider work as a coordinated team, creating a comprehensive plan that addresses both conditions simultaneously.

Integrated treatment for depression and addiction

COMPREHENSIVE CARE

Our Integrated Treatment Approach

We provide evidence-based treatment that addresses both depression and addiction simultaneously.

Psychiatric Evaluation & Medication Management

Our psychiatric team conducts comprehensive assessments and provides medication management for depression using evidence-based treatments that are safe and effective during recovery. We carefully monitor medication interactions and adjust as needed.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps you identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to both depression and substance use. You'll learn practical skills to challenge distorted thinking, manage depressive symptoms, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT teaches skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness - essential tools for managing both depression and addiction. These techniques help you navigate difficult emotions without turning to substances.

Individual & Group Therapy

One-on-one sessions provide personalized attention to your unique experiences and patterns, while group therapy offers connection, reduces isolation, and allows you to learn from others facing similar challenges.

Holistic & Wellness Approaches

Yoga, meditation, art therapy, neurotherapy, and nutritional support help address the whole person. These complementary therapies support both mental health and recovery by promoting overall wellness and stress management.

Recovery from depression and addiction

THERE IS HOPE

Recovery Is Possible

Living with both depression and addiction can feel overwhelming, but recovery is absolutely achievable with the right treatment and support. Many of our clients find that as they progress through treatment, both conditions improve together.

As substance use stops and your brain chemistry begins to heal, depression symptoms often lessen. As depression is treated with therapy and medication, the drive to self-medicate decreases. This positive cycle, supported by our integrated treatment approach, creates momentum toward lasting wellness.

At Luna, our small, boutique setting ensures you receive individualized attention from a coordinated team of addiction specialists and mental health professionals. Together, we'll help you break free from the cycle of depression and substance use and build a foundation for long-term recovery.

Ready to Get Help?

If you're struggling with both depression and substance use, you don't have to face it alone. Luna's integrated dual diagnosis program provides the comprehensive care you need to address both conditions and build a life of wellness and recovery.

Small, Boutique Setting

Maximum 9 clients in residential

Coordinated Care Team

Therapists and psychiatrists working together

Evidence-Based Treatment

Proven therapies for dual diagnosis

Our admissions team is available to answer your questions and verify insurance coverage. Take the first step toward healing today.

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Our compassionate admissions team is available from 8am-10pm to help you begin your journey to recovery.

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