Depression & Substance Use
Integrated, evidence-based treatment with holistic care in the Hollywood Hills.
What is Depression?
Depression is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders worldwide, affecting more than 280 million people, according to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2023). In the United States alone, research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA, 2020) estimates that nearly 1 in 5 adults experiences symptoms of depression each year. Psychiatrists such as Dr. Andrew Solomon and Dr. Thomas Insel, former director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), emphasize that depression is not merely sadness—it is a complex medical condition involving changes in brain chemistry, hormonal balance, and neural connectivity. It manifests through persistent feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Left untreated, depression can profoundly disrupt relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.
How does Depression impact life and lead to substance use?
Depression not only affects mood and motivation but also carries serious health consequences. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 49,000 deaths by suicide occurred in the United States in 2023, with many linked to underlying depressive illness. Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates that up to 15% of individuals with severe, untreated depression may eventually die by suicide, and those with major depressive disorder are at least eight times more likely to attempt suicide than the general population. Studies published in BMC Emergency Medicine have also shown that patients diagnosed with depression are nearly twice as likely to require hospitalization, and over 2.5% require intensive care.
These sobering statistics highlight how depression can become life-threatening and how, in desperation for relief, some individuals may turn to drugs or alcohol—choices that often worsen their condition over time.
What treatments for Depression are offered at Bliss Recovery?
At Bliss Recovery, treatment for depression takes a comprehensive and individualized approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. The program integrates evidence-based therapies with holistic healing practices to promote lasting well-being. Clients participate in mindfulness-based activities such as yoga, sound baths, and fitness sessions that help regulate mood, reduce stress, and restore balance to the nervous system. In addition to holistic care, Bliss Recovery offers Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) when clinically appropriate, which may include the use of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) to stabilize mood and support emotional recovery. This combined approach allows clients to heal both physically and emotionally while developing the tools needed for long-term mental health and sobriety.
