Substance Abuse: Impact on Mental Health & Counselling–Therapy Approach (Arunoday Counselling Model) 1. Impact of Substance Abuse on Mental Health Substance abuse (alcohol, tobacco, drugs, prescription misuse) directly affects the brain, emotions, behaviour, and relationships. Psychological Impacts • Depression & low mood • Anxiety, panic attacks • Irritability, anger outbursts • Poor concentration & memory • Low motivation & confidence • Emotional numbness • Sleep disturbances • Psychosis (hallucinations, paranoia) in severe cases • Increased risk of self-harm & suicide Behavioural & Social Impacts • Relationship conflicts (family, marriage) • Work or academic decline • Financial problems • Legal issues • Social isolation • Loss of trust and self-esteem Many clients present with dual diagnosis – substance abuse + mental health disorder. ⸻ 2. Why Counselling Is Essential (Not Just Medication) Substance use is often a coping mechanism for: • Stress • Trauma • Emotional pain • Loneliness • Childhood neglect • Relationship issues Counselling helps clients: • Understand why they use substances • Learn healthy coping skills • Prevent relapse • Heal emotionally, not just stop substance use ⸻ 3. Counselling & Therapy Approach at Arunoday Counselling Step 1: Psychological Assessment • Type of substance used • Duration & frequency • Mental health symptoms • Motivation level • Family & social background • Risk assessment (suicide relapse) ⸻ Step 2: Motivational Interviewing (MI) Used especially when: • Client is in denial • Low motivation to quit Focus: • Non-judgmental listening • Building insight • Strengthening internal motivation • Small, achievable goals ⸻ Step 3: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) Helps clients: • Identify triggers (stress, people, places) • Challenge negative thoughts • Learn urge-control techniques • Develop problem-solving skills • Replace substance use with healthier behaviours ⸻ Step 4: Emotional Regulation & Stress Management • Relaxation techniques • Breathing exercises • Mindfulness practices • Anger management • Sleep hygiene ⸻ Step 5: Trauma-Informed Counselling (If Required) For clients with: • Childhood trauma • Abuse history • Loss or grief This prevents relapse caused by unresolved emotional pain. ⸻ Step 6: Family Counselling At Arunoday Counselling: • Educate family about addiction • Reduce blame & stigma • Improve communication • Strengthen support system • Set healthy boundaries ⸻ Step 7: Relapse Prevention Therapy Clients learn: • Early warning signs • High-risk situations • Coping plans • Emergency strategies • Long-term recovery planning ⸻ 4. Role of the Counsellor at Arunoday • Empathetic, non-judgmental approach • Safe & confidential environment • Individualized treatment plans • Continuous follow-up & support • Integration of mind–body–behavioural therapy ⸻ 5. Outcome of Counselling at Arunoday ✔ Improved emotional stability ✔ Reduced substance use ✔ Better relationships ✔ Improved self-control ✔ Increased self-esteem ✔ Healthier lifestyle choices ⸻ 6. Suitable For: • Adolescents • Adults • Alcohol & drug dependency • Prescription misuse • Co-occurring mental health issues Contact us:—- Arunoday counselling Mental health therapist Marital counsellor Child psychologist In Indore