What Are Co-Occurring Disorders?

Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, refer to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time.[3] This term underscores the reality that these conditions often occur simultaneously and can interact in complex ways.

For example, someone struggling with depression or other mental health problems may turn to alcohol or drugs as a form of self-medication, which can then exacerbate their mental health symptoms or lead to additional problems. Conversely, substance abuse can sometimes trigger or worsen underlying mental health issues.

Dual diagnosis often requires integrated treatment approaches that address both the mental health and substance use aspects of your condition for effective addiction recovery.[4]

Who is At-Risk For Developing Dual Diagnosis Issues?

Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing dual diagnosis issues:

• Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to both mental health disorders and substance use disorders, increasing the likelihood of co-occurrence.[5]
• Early exposure: Exposure to substance abuse or mental health issues during childhood or adolescence can increase the risk of developing both types of disorders later in life.[6]
• Trauma: People who have experienced trauma, such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or other adverse childhood experiences, are at a higher risk for both mental health disorders and substance abuse.
• Family history: Growing up in an environment where family members struggle with mental health issues or substance abuse can increase one’s susceptibility to developing similar problems.
• Environmental factors: Socioeconomic factors, peer influence, availability of substances, and stressors in the environment can all contribute to the development of dual diagnosis.[7]
• Co-occurring medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as chronic pain or neurological disorders, can increase the risk of developing mental health issues and substance abuse as individuals may turn to substances for relief.
• Neurological factors: Neurochemical imbalances or abnormalities in brain structure and function may predispose individuals to both mental health disorders and substance use disorders.[8]
• Psychological factors: Personality traits such as impulsivity, sensation-seeking behavior, and difficulty managing emotions can increase the likelihood of developing dual diagnosis issues.[9]

It’s important to note that while these factors can increase the risk, they do not guarantee the development of dual diagnosis. Everyone’s experience is unique, and protective factors such as supportive relationships, effective coping skills, and access to appropriate treatment can mitigate these risks.

Why Someone With a Mental Health Disorder May Turn to Substance Use

People grappling with mental health disorders often find themselves drawn to substances as a means of coping or self-medication.[10] For many, substances offer a temporary reprieve from the distressing symptoms that accompany conditions like anxiety or depression. When overwhelmed by emotions or stress, substances can become a coping mechanism, providing a fleeting escape or relief. This coping strategy, while initially seeming effective, can perpetuate a cycle of dependence and further complicate their mental health struggles.

Social factors also play a significant role in the decision to turn to substances. Peer pressure, social norms, and the influence of friends or family members who use substances can unintentionally sway your choices, particularly if you’re seeking social acceptance or belonging. Easy access to substances can facilitate experimentation and regular use, especially if you once perceived them as accessible solutions to your problems.

Psychologically, substances can offer a temporary respite by altering brain chemistry and momentarily alleviating negative thoughts or feelings. This relief can reinforce the inclination to turn to substances repeatedly as a means of managing emotions or regulating mood.

It’s crucial to recognize that while substance use may provide temporary relief or escape, it often exacerbates underlying mental health issues and leads to a host of negative consequences. Addiction, worsening mental health symptoms, social isolation, financial problems, and physical health issues are just a few of the potential outcomes of ongoing substance use.

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If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health concerns and substance use disorder, we can help restore the balance in life and potential. Call today for practical assistance.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Co-Occurring Disorder?

Signs and symptoms of a co-diagnosis or dual diagnosis can vary depending on the specific combination of mental health and substance use disorders. However, some common signs and symptoms may include:[11]

Levels of Care for Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

Levels of care for co-occurring disorders typically involve a continuum of services designed to address the complex needs of those with both mental health and substance use disorders. This continuum recognizes that treatment needs may vary over time and that a range of interventions may be necessary to support recovery.

At each level of care, the focus at dual diagnosis treatment centers such as Wellbridge is on providing comprehensive, integrated services that address both the immediate and long-term needs of people with co-occurring disorders, collaborating on a treatment plan to address all your holistic needs.

Medical Stabilization

This level of care focuses on addressing immediate medical and psychiatric needs, especially in cases where you are in crisis due to substance use or mental health issues. Medical stabilization may involve hospitalization, detox, and stabilization of acute symptoms to ensure your overall safety and well-being. Medical professionals monitor and manage withdrawal symptoms, provide medication-assisted treatment if necessary, and stabilize any co-occurring medical conditions.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation inpatient programs at dual treatment facilities offer structured interventions and therapies aimed at addressing both the mental health and substance use aspects of co-occurring disorders. These treatment programs may be provided in residential, partial hospitalization, or intensive outpatient program settings, depending on your needs and level of functioning.

Rehabilitation typically involves individual and group psychotherapy (with evidence-based practices), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, psychoeducation, skill-building activities, relapse prevention strategies, and support for addressing underlying issues contributing to the co-occurring disorders. Treatment is integrated and tailored to your unique circumstances, with a focus on promoting sustainable recovery and improved overall functioning.

Aftercare Planning

After completing a rehabilitation program, transitioning to aftercare services helps to support your ongoing recovery and successful integration back into daily life. Aftercare planning involves developing a personalized plan that may include ongoing therapy, medication management, support groups, sober living arrangements, and other community-based services.

The goal is to provide ongoing support and resources to help you or a loved one maintain sobriety, better manage your mental health symptoms, and achieve your long-term goals for health and well-being. Aftercare planning is essential for promoting sustained recovery and reducing the risk of relapse following treatment.