Millions of U.S. adults have a co-occurring disorder. A co-occurring disorder, otherwise known as a dual diagnosis, occurs when a person is struggling with both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. A co-occurring disorder can significantly impair a person’s health and quality of life. This is because not only are they struggling with addiction but an untreated mental health condition. 

Unfortunately, many people with an untreated mental illness end up abusing drugs as a means to cope with their mental illness, which only increases their risk of developing an addiction and masking their mental health disorder in the process. That’s why understanding co-occurring disorders is essential to ensure you receive the right treatment if you may be struggling with co-occurring addiction and mental health conditions.

At Calusa Recovery, we are an addiction and mental health treatment center that offers a comprehensive range of drug addiction treatment and mental health treatment to help as many people as possible live a healthier, happier quality of life. 

If you suspect you may be struggling with a co-occurring disorder, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Contact us today to learn how we can help you along your recovery journey.

What is a Co-Occurring Disorder?

Understanding co-occurring disorders is important to ensure you receive the right treatment.

A co-occurring disorder, otherwise known as a dual diagnosis, is when an individual is struggling with at least one mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. For example, someone is struggling with bipolar disorder and cocaine addiction. 

A co-occurring disorder can involve any combination of substance use disorder and mental health disorder. Because both conditions occur simultaneously, seeking co-occurring disorder treatment is essential, not just treatment for one condition. Otherwise, treating one condition but not the other at the same time can increase your risk of relapsing. 

If you suspect you may be struggling with a dual diagnosis, read on to learn more about the common signs of a co-occurring disorder to look out for.

The prevalence of co-occurring disorders

Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis or comorbidity, refer to the presence of both a mental health disorder and substance abuse disorder in an individual. This phenomenon is more common than you might think. Studies have shown that a significant portion of individuals dealing with mental health disorders also struggle with substance abuse. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 9.2 million adults in the United States have co-occurring disorders.

Understanding the connection between mental health and substance abuse

The connection between mental health and substance abuse is multifaceted and involves various interrelated factors. One of the key factors is self-medication. Many individuals with mental health disorders turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to alleviate their symptoms temporarily. For example, someone with anxiety may use alcohol to calm their nerves, while someone with depression may rely on drugs to escape their emotional pain.

Additionally, there are biological and genetic factors at play. Certain mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders share common genetic vulnerabilities, making individuals more susceptible to developing both conditions. Furthermore, the chronic use of substances can alter brain chemistry and contribute to the onset or exacerbation of mental health disorders.

Understanding the complexities of co-occurring disorders

Co-occurring disorders are multifaceted, with various factors contributing to their development. These factors can include genetic predispositions, environmental influences, trauma, and underlying brain chemistry imbalances. Understanding these complexities is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.

One of the key challenges in treating co-occurring disorders is identifying which condition came first. This is known as the “chicken or egg” dilemma. Did the substance use disorder trigger the mental health disorder, or was it the other way around? Untangling this web of causality requires a thorough assessment and evaluation by qualified professionals.

Additionally, co-occurring disorders often present with overlapping symptoms, making diagnosis even more challenging. For example, symptoms of anxiety or depression may also be side effects of substance abuse. This underscores the importance of a comprehensive evaluation that considers both mental health and substance use.

The prevalence of co-occurring disorders

Co-occurring disorders are more common than one might think. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 9.2 million adults in the United States experience both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. This prevalence highlights the need for specialized treatment options that address the unique needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders.

Furthermore, co-occurring disorders are not limited to any specific demographic. They can affect individuals of all ages, genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is a widespread issue that requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach to diagnosis and treatment.

Common Signs of a Co-Occurring Disorder

If you suspect you may be struggling with both an untreated mental illness and substance use disorder, here are some key signs to look out for:

• Difficulty controlling your drug use
• Difficulty concentrating/thinking clearly
• Increasing drug tolerance to achieve your desired effect
• Engaging in riskier behavior than normal
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit abusing drugs
• Constantly feeling depressed or worthless
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Significant weight gain or weight loss

The above signs are just some of the many potential signs that may point to a co-occurring disorder. Because a co-occurring disorder involves any combination of mental illness and substance abuse, there will inevitably be variations among certain signs and symptoms. 

Common Causes of a Co-Occurring Disorder

There is no one primary cause for developing a co-occurring disorder. Typically, a co-occurring disorder can develop out of a combination of both genetic and environmental factors.

Below are some common risk factors that can lead to someone developing a co-occurring disorder are below.

• Having a family history of mental illness.
• Having a family history of substance abuse and addiction.
• Being exposed to certain drugs or alcohol at an early age.
• Experiencing a traumatic event (i.e., physical or sexual abuse)
• Undergoing stressful life events (i.e., death of a loved one, divorce, etc.)

There are several reasons why someone may develop a co-occurring disorder. Typically, people with an untreated mental illness are more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol and develop an addiction compared to people who do not have a mental illness. This is because people may try to ease their mental illness symptoms by abusing drugs or alcohol. However, unfortunately, this only temporarily masks any signs of mental illness and can lead to developing an addiction.

The impact of co-occurring disorders on individuals and society

Diagnosing co-occurring disorders

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment for co-occurring disorders. However, due to their complexity, diagnosis can be challenging. It requires a comprehensive assessment that considers both the mental health and substance use aspects of an individual’s condition.

A crucial step in diagnosing co-occurring disorders involves a thorough evaluation of an individual’s medical history, including any previous diagnoses and treatments. This information provides valuable insights into the individual’s journey and helps guide the treatment plan.

Additionally, mental health professionals may use standardized assessment tools and interviews to gather information about an individual’s symptoms, substance use patterns, and any potential underlying causes. This process helps paint a comprehensive picture of the individual’s condition and aids in creating a personalized treatment plan.

Integrated treatment approach for co-occurring disorders

Treating co-occurring disorders requires an integrated approach that addresses both the mental health disorder and the substance use disorder simultaneously. Integrated treatment involves the collaboration of mental health professionals, substance abuse counselors, and other healthcare providers to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach.

One of the key components of integrated treatment is the development of an individualized treatment plan. This plan takes into account the unique needs, preferences, and circumstances of the individual. It may include a combination of medication, psychotherapy, counseling, support groups, and other evidence-based interventions.

The goal of integrated treatment is to address the underlying causes of both mental health and substance use disorders and empower individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms. By treating the whole person, rather than focusing on each disorder separately, individuals have a higher chance of achieving lasting recovery.

Psychotherapy and counseling for co-occurring disorders

Psychotherapy and counseling are essential components of the treatment for co-occurring disorders. They provide individuals with a safe and supportive space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly used forms of therapy for co-occurring disorders. It helps individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their conditions. CBT can also help individuals develop effective coping strategies to manage cravings, triggers, and stressors.

Other therapeutic approaches, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and motivational interviewing, may also be beneficial in addressing co-occurring disorders. These approaches focus on building skills, enhancing motivation, and improving overall emotional well-being.

Medications for co-occurring disorders

Medications can play a crucial role in the treatment of co-occurring disorders. They can help manage symptoms, reduce cravings, and stabilize mood. However, medication should always be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

For individuals with co-occurring disorders, a combination of medications may be prescribed. For example, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be used to address symptoms of mental health disorders, while medications such as naltrexone or buprenorphine may be used to support recovery from substance use disorders.

It is important to note that medication alone is not a cure for co-occurring disorders. It is just one tool among many in the comprehensive treatment approach. Regular monitoring and adjustment of medication, as well as ongoing therapy, are essential for optimal outcomes.

Top-Rated Addiction & Mental Health Treatment

Understanding co-occurring disorders can be difficult at first; however, if you suspect you may be struggling with a co-occurring disorder, it’s essential you seek treatment for both conditions at the same time. Otherwise, treating one condition but not the other increases your risk of relapsing. That’s why it’s essential you seek professional treatment from a treatment center that offers both mental health and substance abuse treatment services, like Calusa Recovery.

At Calusa Recovery, we offer a wide range of treatment programs from dual diagnosis therapy to detox services, inpatient care, and more so you can receive the right care no matter where you are on your recovery journey. Whether you are just beginning your recovery journey or looking for additional support to maintain your sobriety, we’re here to help you every step of the way! 

Ready to reclaim your life? Contact us today to learn more about all our different treatment programs and offerings.