What Is A Co-Occurring Disorder?

Overcoming a substance use disorder or mental illness is challenging – overcoming both at the same time is an even more difficult feat.

Difficult, but not impossible.

Some people seeking treatment for a substance use disorder (SUD) or mental illness are often diagnosed with a co-occurring disease, an SUD and a mental health condition like depression, anxiety or PTSD. While these diagnoses present unique challenges in recovery, the right treatment program can help you manage both sets of symptoms and recover from both disorders simultaneously.

Examples of co-occurring disorders

Co-occurring disorders, sometimes known as dual diagnosis, co-occur, sometimes as a direct result of one or the other. Most often, those who struggle with substance abuse will also exhibit symptoms of another mental illness; additionally, individuals struggling with an eating disorder may show signs of a mental illness due to the adverse physical effects an eating disorder often displays.

Some examples of mental illnesses most often seen in clients seeking treatment for co-occurring disorders include:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Major depressive disorder
• Anxiety and mood disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Schizophrenia

It’s important to note that just because you are struggling with a mental health disorder does not mean a substance use disorder is guaranteed to develop. Half of substance abuse prevention is awareness and understanding, so by knowing the particular mental health disorders at higher risk, you can have good defense strategies to prevent an SUD.

Which comes first?

Sometimes, it is easy to discern whether the mental health condition or the mental illness was present first. Mental illness is often a contributing factor to substance use in the form of self-medication. However, it is also possible for substance use to lead to a mental health disorder.

And yet, there are some instances in which determining which came first is less obvious. Sometimes, a person will battle the symptoms of a mental illness for a very long time without realizing that the changes in their behavior, mind or body are connected to a mental health disorder. They may then seek out substances as a means of “treating” these emotions and feelings, thereby causing the development of a co-occurring disorder.

That being said, not everyone who struggles with a mental illness will develop an SUD, and vice versa. While the risks are certainly higher, they are not guaranteed.

Treating co-occurring disorders

In the past, co-occurring disorders were treated separately and with different techniques. This method did not produce effective results for patients. Now, they are treated simultaneously using holistic, evidence-based treatment models, which improve chances of recovery. Typical components of this approach include:

• A more robust support system
• Tools for managing mental health triggers
• Better medication therapy
• Cross-trained staff
• Integrative approaches to treatment
• Longer-term care

Treatment is comprehensive as mental wellness is incorporated into the substance use recovery program. Patients are equipped with the tools and training to overcome both disorders effectively.

Finding treatment for a dual diagnosis

Effective recovery starts with finding the right co-occurring disorder treatment program, so make sure you take the time to ask the right questions to make sure the treatment facility will help you meet your recovery goals.

Does the treatment center use evidence-based practices?

The best indication of an effective treatment program is if it uses evidence-based, holistic treatment models. This means scientific studies and data support the program’s methods and claims.

Examples of evidence-based treatment include treatment models like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Motivational Interviewing. A better understanding of co-occurring disorders can help you know what a treatment program should offer and what you should expect.

Is a program the right fit for you?

Selecting a treatment program is not a process that should be taken lightly or rushed. Don’t be afraid to rigorously interview treatment programs to discover how you will benefit from them, and don’t feel pressured to commit to the first one you find. Select a program and/or therapist that matches your unique needs and personality. Doing so will increase the chances of recovery and prevent relapse.

Start your journey to long-term recovery

If you are suffering from a co-occurring disorder, you are not alone. High Focus Centers is here to help you overcome this complex and difficult challenge. If you or a loved one requires treatment for a co-occurring disorder, contact us today to learn more.