Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders

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Co-occurring disorders — or dual diagnoses — are a significant concern for the mental health and substance abuse treatment industries. These disoUnfortunately, these can be challenging to treat for those who suffer from them. However, a comprehensive approach to both disorders can improve outcomes and help you live a happy, healthy life in the future. What you need to consider about Co-Occurring Disorders.

Many people with mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD  also struggle with substance use disorders. These disorders have symptoms can cause problems at home, work, school, and relationships. They are also linked to poor quality of life, and the two conditions often exacerbate one another.

Drug and alcohol use can worsen your mental illness symptoms, or they may even trigger new ones. This is why it’s essential to take the time to identify and address your addiction.

The first step in getting treatment is finding a qualified mental health provider to detour the problem. Then, they can create a treatment plan that includes psychotherapy, family therapy, and other forms of support. The treatment will focus on your recovery needs and be individualized to meet your unique circumstances.

Integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders combines psychotherapy, counseling, medical care, and other services designed to address the underlying causes of your mental health issues and substance abuse. Often, these treatment plans involve medications that will help you ease withdrawal symptoms, treat mental health issues, and prevent relapses.

Your loved ones can also play a key role in your treatment. They can help you identify signs and symptoms of your co-occurring disorders and offer emotional and social support as you move forward. They can also help you find a support group or therapist who can address your mental health needs.

There are many reasons why your mental health and substance use problems have gotten out of hand. You aren’tUnfortunately, you one — a recent study shows that almost eight million Americans suffer from co-occurring disorders.

Suppose you are concerned about someone you know who has a co-occurring disorder. You can contact the Behavioral Health Treatment Service Locator from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to find an integrated treatment facility. The search tool allows you to filter by type of facility, special programs offered, and payment accepted payment types. Also, contact a local addiction counselor to get information about co-occurring disorders or visit the National Institutes of Health website to learn more about these conditions. They have a section with tips for co-occurring diseases, helpful resources, and articles on these issues.

Integrated treatment for co-occurring issues involves a thorough screening and assessment to help professionals accurately diagnose your mental health needs and substance abuse concerns. They can then design a comprehensive care plan that will include psychotherapy, individual and group therapy, medication, education, and other treatments to your needs.

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