Substance/Medication-Induced Mental Disorders

The symptoms of substance/medication-induced mental disorders tend to vary depending on the specific substance or medication involved, as well as co-occurring mental health conditions and physical and environmental factors. Below are some of the symptoms that may be experienced with the subtypes of substance- and medication-induced mental disorders. 

Depressive symptoms of substance/medication-induced mental disorders

Depressive symptoms are often associated with drug-induced depression, but they can also occur with other conditions such as substance-induced mood disorders. Depressive symptoms of these conditions may include the following: 

• Persistent sadness or thoughts of hopelessness
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Changes in appetite and weight
• Insomnia or excessive sleep
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Thoughts of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Anxiety symptoms

Below are anxiety-related symptoms that could occur with some substance-induced mental health conditions and related mental illnesses: 

• Excessive worry or fear
• Restlessness or a sense of being “on edge” 
• A racing heart or palpitations
• Sweating and trembling
• Shortness of breath or hyperventilation
• Muscle tension or aches
• Panic attacks with intense fear and physical symptoms

Psychotic symptoms of substance/medication-induced mental disorders

Psychotic symptoms are often prevalent with medication-induced psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, but they can also present with a substance-induced mood disorder such as bipolar disorder. Some people with these mental health conditions experience substance-induced psychosis, which might include the following symptoms: 

• Hallucinations (sensory experiences of what isn’t real, such as sight, touch, taste, smell, or hearing)
• Delusions (firmly held false beliefs)
• Disorganized thinking and speech
• Lack of insight into one's condition
• Social withdrawal and impaired functioning

There are different types of substance-induced psychotic disorder such as drug-induced psychosis and alcohol-induced psychosis, for example. 

Other mental health symptoms

Below are other mental health symptoms individuals may experience with these substance or medication related mental illness conditions: 

• Cognitive impairments and memory problems
• Emotional instability and mood swings
• Aggressive or violent behavior
• Paranoia and suspiciousness
• Impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors

Some of these symptoms are similar to what one might experience with mild neurocognitive disorder. 

General symptoms

General symptoms of substance- or medication-induced mental health disorders could include: 

• Changes in sleep patterns
• Appetite disturbances
• Decreased hygiene and self-care
• Decline in academic or occupational performance
• Relationship conflict or social isolation

Note that substance/medication-induced mental disorders may mimic primary mental health conditions. Additionally, symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance used, the dosage, and the duration of use. In some cases, these symptoms may resolve with abstinence from the substance, while in others, they may persist and benefit from specialized treatment and support.

The primary cause of substance/medication-induced mental disorders is the consumption of substances like alcohol, stimulants, hallucinogens, steroids, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other mood-altering substances. Other causes and risk factors may include the following: 

• Dosage and frequency: The severity of substance-induced mental disorders can be influenced by the dosage and frequency of substance use. High doses or chronic use may be likelier to lead to significant psychiatric symptoms.
• Polysubstance use: The concurrent use of multiple substances can increase the risk of developing mental health challenges, as different substances may interact and amplify their effects on the brain.
• Underlying mental health conditions: Individuals with pre-existing mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, may be more vulnerable to the psychiatric effects of substances.
• Genetics and family history: Genetic factors can play a role in determining an individual's susceptibility to substance-induced mental disorders. A family history of mental health disorders or substance use may increase the risk.
• Co-occurring disorders: The presence of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, also known as dual diagnosis or comorbidity, can complicate the clinical presentation and treatment of these conditions.
• Stress and trauma:⁴ Traumatic events or chronic stress can exacerbate the risk of substance misuse that leads to the manifestation of symptoms.

For those who have experienced traumatic events, certain triggers may be associated with mental health symptoms and the urge to use substances, such as the following: 

• Stressful events: Significant life events, such as loss, interpersonal conflicts, or significant changes, can trigger mood swings.
• Reminders of trauma: Certain sights, sounds, or experiences that remind the individual of their traumatic past can evoke emotional distress and substance use as a coping mechanism.
• Anniversaries: The anniversary of the traumatic event may evoke strong emotional reactions, leading to an increased likelihood of substance misuse and mood fluctuations.

Comprehensive treatment approaches can address multiple aspects of mental and physical health along with substance use challenges to promote healing and recovery.

Often, the primary goal of treating substance/medication-induced mental disorders is to address the underlying substance use and the concurrent psychiatric symptoms. Treatment often aims to achieve lasting recovery and improved mental well-being by addressing the individual's specific circumstances.

Medication

Medication may sometimes be recommended to ease symptoms, such as the following: 

• Psychiatric medications: In cases where psychiatric symptoms are severe or persistent, psychiatric medications may be prescribed. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and antipsychotics are commonly used to manage symptoms.
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): MAT combines behavioral therapy with medications (e.g., methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone) to treat substance use disorders and reduce cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and the risk of relapse.

Other treatment options

Below are a few other treatment options for substance- or medication-induced mental disorders: 

• Dual diagnosis treatment: For individuals with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, integrated dual diagnosis treatment may provide comprehensive care to address both conditions simultaneously.
• Family therapy: Involving family members in the treatment process may promote understanding, communication, and support, leading to improved outcomes.
• Support programs: 12-step programs, SMART Recovery, and other support groups may help individuals find peer support and guidance related to substance use. 

Self-care

Below are several self-care strategies that may reduce the impacts of substance-induced mental health symptoms: 

• Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep can positively impact mental and physical well-being.
• Stress management: Learning stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises can aid in coping with cravings.
• Support networks: Building a strong support network of friends, family, or support groups can provide invaluable encouragement and assistance throughout recovery.
• Avoiding trauma triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers, including specific people, places, or activities associated with substance use or trauma, may prevent relapse and reduce symptoms.

The effectiveness of treatment often depends on factors like the individual's commitment to recovery, the severity of the substance-induced mental disorder, and the level of support available.

In cases of substance/medication-induced mental disorders, therapy often plays a crucial role in helping individuals understand the connections between substance use and symptoms. Several online therapy platforms, such as BetterHelp, offer comfortable and convenient therapy options, allowing participants the ability to receive specialized treatment from the comfort of their own homes.

Substance/medication-induced mental disorders additional resources

Additional resources could include the following organizations, which offer advice and support guidance for people with substance-induced disorders: 

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• American Addiction Centers (AAC)
• Mental Health America (MHA)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

For those with thoughts of suicide, contact 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Please also see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.

For help with substance use, contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Research indicates that mental health disorders, notably depression and bipolar disorder, frequently coexist with substance use disorders in specific individuals.  

Substance/medication-induced mental disorders studies

Although recent advancements have pinpointed specific therapeutic avenues for individuals living with mood and substance use disorders, a study examining the national addiction treatment framework revealed several obstacles in providing comprehensive care stemming from deficiencies in mental health and addiction treatment systems.

While additional research found new treatments and technological advancements that hold promise for the future of treating cognitive deficiencies brought on by substance use disorder, studies conclude that more research on substance/medication-induced mental disorders would be beneficial to fully understand these options. 

Below are a few key statistics on substance/medication-induced mental disorders:

• Substance/medication-induced mental disorders are relatively common, with studies estimating that they account for approximately 4% to 5% of psychiatric emergency department visits. 
• Alcohol and drugs are among the leading substances associated with the development of substance-induced mental disorders. 
• Around 50% of individuals with substance use disorders have a co-occurring mental health disorder, highlighting the interplay between substance use and psychiatric symptoms.
• With appropriate treatment and support, approximately 60% to 80% of individuals with substance-induced mental disorders experience improvement in their symptoms and overall well-being.