Are you stuck in survival mode? When Survival Becomes A Diagnosis, refers to a state of ongoing stress and survival mode that can cause various mental and physical health problems. This happens when the body's natural stress response, known as the fight-or-flight response, stays active over time, impacting different bodily systems and mental functions. While survival mode is a normal stress response, long-term activation can lead to negative effects. 

Family estrangement, or the severing of family ties, is increasingly recognized as a prevalent issue, with a significant number of adults estranged from at least one family member. While exact statistics vary, research suggests that roughly one in four Americans may be estranged from a relative.  

It sounds radical, but what if substance use isn’t a disorder but a survival strategy for coping with trauma, poverty, or pain? The real issue isn’t in the brain or body but what’s happened to and around them. Recovery doesn’t require another diagnosis, but rather understanding, support, and meeting people where they are. Are we ready to have that conversation?

The contemporary behavioral healthcare model, while well-intentioned, is fundamentally limited by outdated methodologies and technologies. The sporadic nature of in-office and televisits, coupled with rudimentary follow-up mechanisms, creates a discontinuous care experience that fails to capture the nuanced, day-to-day realities of patients’ lives. Aaron Reichlin, MD, leads efforts to revolutionize mental health service delivery.

The future of mental health healing is likely to be significantly shaped by technology, emphasizing personalized treatment and increased accessibility. This includes the use of AI, digital therapeutics, and telehealth to improve diagnosis, treatment, and support. Social policies and increased community support are also crucial for addressing the root causes of mental health issues.

Substance use disorder (SUD) recovery is a complex, lifelong process requiring coordinated support across health care, social services, and community systems. Unlike other chronic conditions, SUD is episodic and has uniquely high stakes due to the lethality of the current drug supply. The lethality of today’s drug supply means that a gap in care or a recurrence of symptoms can quickly become fatal.