According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the rates of anxiety, depression, and addiction among adolescents and adults are on the rise.
One would think that economic status has a lot to do with this disturbing trend, but even affluent communities, like Milton, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Sandy Springs, Buckhead, and Dunwoody in North Atlanta, Georgia, are experiencing a veritable epidemic of mental health and substance abuse issues. As a result, too many pre-teens, teenagers, and adults are suffering from everything from emotional conflicts and intense social pressure to feelings of worthlessness and shame.
It doesn’t have to be this way. Not when Atlanta Specialized Care can provide scientifically supported interventions and compassionate care to those afflicted with mood disorders, addiction, trauma, family dynamics, social and communication challenges, and executive functioning difficulties.
Why are Anxiety, Depression, and Addition Rampant in Affluent Communities?
Access to Addictive Substances and Products
Addictive substances like drugs and alcohol cost money, and the more money one has, the easier it is to have access to such substances. With more resources to go around, children of all ages and adults can purchase and abuse addictive substances without compromising on other aspects of life, such as paying bills on time, purchasing clothes and necessities, paying college and university tuition, and more. What’s more, since everyone in their social circle is likely to also have the same level of access, the use of such substances is common among more peers than in other communities of society. As a result, it becomes harder to avoid these substances.
Pressure To Achieve
Members of affluent communities often tie success and self-worth to achievements. This means a child is expected to maintain good grades and participate in sports in order to get into certain colleges and universities. Then, at college or university, they have pressure to do well to get into graduate school or other continued education programs. Once that is achieved, there is pressure to get a white-collar job, then move ahead in one’s career at a fast pace. This need to achieve newer and bigger things on a constant basis can significantly impact your sense of self-worth, which adds a lot of pressure. There is also a significant comparison culture among members of the community to see who is doing better education- and career-wise. This pressure can lead to anxiety, depression, and an increased likelihood to try drugs and alcohol to relieve the stress.
Dealing with Anxiety, Depression, and Addiction
Anxiety, depression, and addiction can have crippling physical and mental effects on your life, making it difficult to function, much less be happy. The good news is that each of these problems is treatable with science-based professional counseling.
For example, if you or a loved one are suffering from depression or anxiety, the highly trained and experienced therapists at Atlanta Specialized Care can provide a safe, caring, and confidential environment in which you work together to explore your feelings, beliefs, and behaviors with the goal of helping you better understand yourself, create desired changes, and develop effective coping mechanisms to improve your quality of life.
In addition, our therapists are equipped to treat not only the behaviors and cognitions related to substance abuse but also those related to co-existing mental health issues, such as:
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
- Much more
These mental health issues, as well as genetics, can increase the likelihood of substance abuse. While we cannot control genetic predispositions, we can increase the likelihood that substance abuse treatment will be more effective by treating these and other mental health issues promptly.
How do you know that you or a loved one has an alcohol or substance abuse problem that requires intervention and professional therapy? Major warning signs include:
- Using in greater amounts or for longer than intended
- Wanting to cut down or stop, but not being able to
- The inability to manage commitments due to the use
- Continuing to use it, even when it adversely affects relationships
- Forgoing important activities because of the use
- Continuing to use it, even when it puts you in danger
- Continuing to use, even when physical or psychological problems may be made worse by the use
- Increasing tolerance to your addiction
- Severe withdrawal symptoms
Experienced Therapists in Atlanta and Alpharetta, GA
At Atlanta Specialized Care, our therapeutic approach is holistic, meaning we treat the whole person – biologically, psychologically, and sociologically. Our therapists have years of experience treating adolescents, teenagers, and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse issues, and are committed to partnering with parents and other family members to achieve this goal.
To learn more about our areas of expertise or to request an appointment at our office, please call Atlanta Specialized Care at (770) 815-6853 or arrange a consultation online by using our interactive appointment request form.
