Due to the enigmatic nature of the brain, the co-occurrence of substance use disorder (SUD) and mental disorders continues to be a mystery. Like the riddle “which came first, the chicken or egg,” one cannot hold either of them responsible for causing the other due to overlapping symptoms and increased interdependence.

While drug and substance abuse changes the levels of brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, known for controlling moods, one may resort to their use due to the grave challenges of mental disorders. Therefore, coexisting disorders like SUD and psychiatric illnesses are prevalent among people suffering from mental illnesses or abusing substances. Read more →