Mental health and substance use are often linked. Some people with untreated mental illnesses may use substances such as alcohol or other drugs to cope with their condition. While some research links substance use with mental illness, no research conclusively indicates that alcohol or other drug use causes mental illness. However, alcohol or other drug use may trigger or make existing conditions worse. Frequent or chronic substance use increases the likelihood of this occurring.

If you use alcohol or other drugs to deal with depression or any other form of mental illness, please see a counselor at R.N. Ellington Health and Counseling Center. Appointments can be made by calling (336) 278-7280.