Throughout the United States, every 6 out of 10 people who struggle with substance use disorder also experience a different type of mental health issue at the same time. This is called a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder, and listed below are facts you may not know about them:
- Co–occurring disorders come in many forms –
There isn’t a single type of co-occurring disorder. A variety of different combinations of substance abuse and mental health disorders are possible, each with a unique set of side effects that make a dual diagnosis difficult to understand and even more difficult to diagnose and treat.
There are however certain combinations which tend to be more prevalent. Depression and anxiety are the most widespread mental health disorders co-occurring with drug and alcohol use.
- Patients commonly self-medicate with alcohol or other substances when mental health disorders appear first –
For many people mental health symptoms come first and can ignite a need to use drugs and alcohol to somehow cope with the situation. Over time, if the cycle of self-medication fails to mitigate the symptoms, it intensifies and worsens the problem, pushing the person to increase their dosage which unfortunately results in a dependency.
- Either mental illness or substance use disorder can develop first –
No matter which disorder develops first, co-occurring disorders tend to also produce overlapping illnesses (two or more) and a wide range of psycho-social issues.
- When substance use disorder occurs first, the continual use often leads to mental and emotional disorders –
Though psychiatric issues are often caused by a complex set of factors, heavy substance abuse can increase the underlying risk for mental health disorders.
- People suffering from co–occurring disorders are considered “high risk” –
Patients with co-occurring disorders can be considered continuously at risk of relapse. This risk can be somewhat reduced by a comprehensive integrated treatment plan and effective aftercare support.
- There is no quick fix – Treatment plans for co-occurring disorders tend to be longer, but evidence has shown that longer treatment is also more effective.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
