Co-occurring disorders, formerly called “dual diagnoses,” refers to the condition of having a substance addiction and mental health disorder simultaneously. Because people with mental health disorders are more likely to develop a substance addiction in the first place, co-occurring disorders are a common affliction. Indeed, around 8 million Americans are believed to suffer from co-occurring disorders every year.
Some of the most common combinations of substance addiction and mental health disorders are:
– Alcohol addiction & antisocial personality disorder
– Heroin addiction & depression
– Cocaine addiction & anxiety disorder
– Opioids & post-traumatic stress disorder
– Marijuana & schizophrenia
Due to the complexity and overlapping nature of the symptoms involved, co-occurring disorders can be difficult to diagnose, and one of the disorders may be left untreated. The failure to properly treat one of the disorders can be devastating, leading to a higher likelihood of relapse, death, homelessness, suicide, and incarceration.
Professionals are in uniform agreement that the simultaneous, integrated treatment of both disorders is the best approach. Finding a treatment center with the resources needed for integrated treatment will be critical.
The team of experienced consultants and trained clinicians at the Asana Recovery Center is prepared to help people at all stages of addiction. Call (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
