Empathy in mental health: Intersection with Substance Use Disorder
AUSTIN (KXAN)—Navigating life with a mental health disorder is no easy task, and is even more difficult when paired with Substance Use Disorder (SUD). The National Mental Health Institute describes SUD as a treatable disorder, where a person cannot control their substance abuse. Addiction is the most severe form.
“50% of patients that have a substance use disorder will have a co-occurring mental health disorder,” said Dr. Sherma Morton, national medical director of Eleanor Health. “If you’re diagnosed with a mental health disorder, you [are] two to three times more likely of having a substance use disorder.”
Eleanor Health is an outpatient addiction treatment program. Morton said they constantly see patients who need treatment for a mental health disorder and SUD, as both conditions are deeply intertwined.
“There are many people that have a substance use disorder and have a mental health disorder that are seen as separate issues,” Morton said. “Treating one and not treating the other is not treating the patient.”
Treatment for SUD can include different forms of therapy and medication. But beyond medical treatment, showing the patient that they have people supporting them is a crucial step toward recovery, especially considering the stigma of substance use.
“Lead with empathy. Put your biases at the door,” Morton said. “This is not a flaw. It’s a health condition. It deserves the dignity and respect of treatment, just like any other health condition.”
