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
AltaPointe Health offers a variety of substance use treatment services designed to support individuals at every stage of recovery. Services include medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction, intensive outpatient treatment programs, specialized outpatient services for women, and expanded
intensive outpatient treatment for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. AltaPointe also operates a medically managed withdrawal unit through its Behavioral Health Crisis Center in Mobile, providing a safe and comfortable environment for individuals beginning recovery from alcohol, opioids, fentanyl, and other substances.
AltaPointe also provides integrated counseling, peer support, recovery planning, and ongoing outpatient services to help individuals maintain long-term wellness. Providers encourage anyone struggling with mental health or substance use to reach out for support early, reminding the community that recovery is possible and help is available.
Learn more about AltaPointe’s programs and services at AltaPointe.org, or call (251) 450-2211 to find the right fit for you or your loved one.
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