MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – As Mental Health Awareness Month brings attention to emotional well-being, healthcare professionals are also emphasizing the strong connection between mental health and substance use disorders. Dr. Luke Engeriser, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for AltaPointe Health and addiction medicine specialist, joined Studio10 to explain how the two often go hand in hand, making it critical to address both conditions together in order to support long-term recovery and wellness.
Mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic stress can contribute to substance use, while drug and alcohol misuse can also worsen mental health symptoms over time. Warning signs may include changes in mood, withdrawal from loved ones, sleep disturbances, irritability, difficulty concentrating, or a decline in work or school performance. In many cases, substance use may begin interfering with relationships, daily responsibilities, or physical health.
Mental health professionals say stigma continues to be one of the biggest barriers preventing people from seeking treatment. Many individuals struggling with addiction or mental illness may fear judgment or feel ashamed to ask for help. Providers continue encouraging the public to view both mental health conditions and substance use disorders as treatable medical issues rather than personal failures. HELP IS AVAILABLE…