While the coronavirus is currently the most talked about public health problem in the nation, the opioid epidemic should not be forgotten. It is still a major issue plaguing tens of thousands of people across the country. Over the past two-plus decades, the opioid crisis has led to the death of over 400,000 Americans, and, unfortunately, the problem has only continued to grow, including new growth that may be caused by Covid-19. 

As more people use and abuse opioids, there is evidence that indicates that opioid abuse may contribute to, and even cause, mental health problems. 

In general, people who abuse opioids are more likely to struggle with a number of different mental health disorders. 

In fact, one study found that among people prescribed opioids, about 10% developed depression or exhibited depression symptoms just one month after taking the drugs. They also found that the longer they took these drugs, the more likely it became for them to develop depression. 

Along with depression, anxiety disorders have shown to be a side effect of non-prescription opioid abuse as well. 

It should be noted that for people who are dealing with addiction issues, are often suffering for underlying trauma and mental disorders that may be acting as the catalyst for these substance abuse problems. 

In fact, about 16% of Americans who have mental health disorders receive over half of all opioids prescribed in the United States. 

While mental health disorders are common among opioid abusers, these drugs can also change the way the brain functions from a neurological standpoint. 

For one, continued use of opioids leads to changes in the brain’s reward system causing the body and brain to crave these substances and causing opioid withdrawals in some cases. 

This promotes continued drug use and causes the body to function normally with drugs in the system and abnormally when sober. This is one of the first steps to addiction and leads to a cyclical effect that can cause long-term damage. 

These mental health issues are just one of the many side effects of opioids. Along with these, other issues such as confusion, nausea, slowed breathing, and overdose can occur. 

For those that are dealing with problems related to opioid addiction, there are opioid rehabs and treatment centers available to help those struggling.  

When it comes to addiction treatment, it is vital to find a location that can not only help with substance abuse but also help patients confront. the underlying mental health problem that may be contributing to or causing their substance abuse disorder. This form of treatment for patients who are exhibiting a dual diagnosis should be the standard. If one problem is handled while the other is ignored it leads to an increased risk of relapse. 

For the highest chance at recovery, it is best to rely on evidence-based and comprehensive treatment programs that will look at all problems that factor into someone’s substance abuse.