The Catalyst
What is the Catalyst?
Psychoactive substance (PS) use can set off or accelerate intense mental health challenges, such as a depressive state, anxiety or hallucinations.
The Avalanche
Just as a skier can set off an avalanche as they go down the mountain, PS use can lead to the appearance of symptoms of a mental health disorder.
However, it can be complicated for both the person experiencing symptoms and those supporting them to determine the connection between PS use and associated mental health problems. Symptoms of a mental health disorder can emerge during periods of intoxication and, in some cases, persist after the fact.
These symptoms can also develop gradually and subtly. Additionally, stopping the substance use doesn’t necessarily mean that mental health symptoms will disappear completely. Symptoms can also appear during or following withdrawal.
Testimonial
“A few years ago, I was prescribed a stimulant to treat my ADHD. I started taking a lot, without necessarily respecting the dose that I had been prescribed. After that, I started hearing voices. I toughed it out and continued like that for a few months. I told myself it was just the medication and that it would eventually stop. I've now stopped using that medication, but I still hear voices.”
Possible Avenues for Intervention:
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- Help the person clarify the connection between their substance use (intoxication, withdrawal) and the appearance or intensification of their mental health symptoms:
- Ask them to identify a timeline that shows the phases of their substance use and symptoms related to mental health disorders (number of symptoms, intensity level, etc.) to highlight any possible associations between them.
- Suggest that they keep a journal to observe their own substance use and the state of their mental health.
- Ask them if they are aware of any possible interactions between their mental health challenges and their substance use (e.g., are they aware of the connection between MDMA/Ecstasy use and depression?)
- If they wish, provide them with additional information.
- If they’re interested, suggest they take a break from substance use to see what effects they might feel. This intervention must be carried out safely to protect the person’s mental and physical health (e.g., ensure that withdrawal takes place in a detox centre).
For more information (in French only)
The other main causes
of concomitant disorders
For further information
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