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Co-occurring Disorders:
Understanding Mental Health Challenges

What are co-occurring disorders? How do they impact mental and physical well-being? Find out in this comprehensive article.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

  • Written by Skyline Recovery Center staff

Co-occurring Disorders and Skyline Recovery Center

Picture this: Everyday tasks are overwhelming, you can’t concentrate, and your emotions and behaviors feel uncontrollable. To cope, you might turn to alcohol or drugs, hoping for temporary relief. But, this can create a vicious cycle, worsening both your mental health challenges and your substance use.

This is the reality for many people. They face co-occurring disorders, where a mental illness and a substance use disorder (SUD) are present simultaneously.

Skyline Recovery Center (SRC), located in Los Angeles, California, understands the complex challenges of co-occurring disorders. Treating each disorder separately leads to higher rates of relapse and unsuccessful outcomes.

We focus on integrated care, which addresses both mental health and substance use disorders at the same time.

co-occurring disorders

Understanding Co-occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorders, also called dual diagnosis, refer to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. It is often caused by misusing drugs (illegal or prescription) or alcohol as a way to cope with mental illness.

 

The prevalence of dual diagnosis is common. Research indicates that over one-third of U.S, adults with a substance use disorder also have a mental illness.1

The Challenge of Dual Diagnosis

Individuals with dual diagnosis face a unique set of challenges. The symptoms of each condition can complicate diagnosis and treatment.
For instance, someone struggling with depression and alcohol abuse might exhibit low mood and insomnia. These could be symptoms of either condition. Overlapping symptoms make it difficult to pinpoint the cause.
Co-occurring disorders also require integrated care. This involves a team of health care professionals in multiple specialties.
Because of these complexities, a specialized approach is necessary. Programs not set up to treat co-occurring disorders may struggle to achieve lasting results.

Integrated Care: A Path to Comprehensive Healing

Skyline Recovery Center’s outpatient program recognizes the interconnectedness of mental health and addiction. Our integrated care approach ensures that both conditions are addressed simultaneously.

Integrated care in outpatient treatment for co-occurring disorders can involve:
  • Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions to explore challenges and emotions, develop insight, and learn skills.
  • Group Therapy: Group sessions to connect with others, reduce feelings of isolation, and gain perspective.
  • Medication Management: The use of medications to manage symptoms of both disorders.
Skyline Recovery Center provides comprehensive care to empower people with co-occurring disorders. We help them achieve lasting healing and build a brighter future.

The Skyline Approach: Holistic Healing for Dual Recovery

At Skyline Recovery Center, we understand that co-occurring disorders need a specialized approach. Here is how we ensure our clients receive the care they need:

A Team of Experts Guiding Your Journey

Our team consists of the following qualified health care professionals:
  • Board-Certified Psychiatrists (MDs): Medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders and can prescribe medication when necessary. 
  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT): Therapists trained to address the impact of addiction and mental health on family dynamics. 
  • Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (CADC): Counselors who specialize in substance abuse treatment and recovery. 
  • Registered Addiction Treatment Specialists (RADTs): Professionals with expertise in evidence-based addiction treatment approaches.
These professionals have relevant certifications and stay current on the latest medical advancements. This ensures that clients receive the most effective care.
We also work closely with other health care providers and facilities. This collaboration allows us to provide the best care tailored to each client’s needs.

Unveiling the Underlying Issues: Comprehensive Assessment

A key part of the Skyline approach is conducting thorough assessments to identify and treat dual diagnosis. The goal is to gather a complete picture of each person’s mental health and substance use history.
The information collected allows for a more precise diagnosis. It also enables the team to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses each client’s unique needs.
Here are some examples of what these assessments involve:
  • Detailed Interviews: We ask various questions to learn more about each client’s history and current situation. This can include questions about their mental health and medical history, substance use patterns, and well-being.
  • Psychological Tests: These tests evaluate mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety. It also looks for trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other conditions.
  • Medical Exams: We look for physical health conditions that may contribute to or be impacted by addiction or mental health issues.
By conducting a comprehensive assessment, Skyline Recovery Center can identify the root causes of both substance abuse and mental health conditions. This allows for the development of a truly tailored treatment plan.

Personalized Care Plans for Lasting Change

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery at Skyline Recovery Center. After the assessment, our team collaborates to make a personalized treatment plan. The plan addresses the specific needs and goals of those with co-occurring disorders.
This plan may include the following:
  • Individual therapy sessions address both substance abuse and mental health conditions.
  • Group therapy to connect with others facing similar challenges in a safe and supportive environment. These groups may be tailored to address specific co-occurring disorders.
  • Family therapy involves family members in the healing process. It aims to promote understanding and support.
  • Life skills training to develop practical skills for managing stress, emotions, and triggers associated with both conditions.
Skyline Recovery Center also uses many evidence-based therapies. These therapies aim to treat dual diagnosis.
Here’s a closer look at some of these approaches:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps people identify and change negative thought patterns. These patterns may contribute to both substance abuse and mental health challenges.
For instance, someone struggling with depression and alcohol abuse might learn to challenge their negative thoughts about themselves that have led to cravings for alcohol.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT equips individuals with practical skills for:
  • Managing emotions
  • Improving relationships
  • Tolerating distress
These skills are beneficial for people with intense emotions or negative ways of coping, like substance abuse.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT combines medication with therapy and counseling. These medications help manage withdrawal and cravings from substance abuse. This can help people focus on addressing their mental health condition without being overwhelmed by physical discomfort.2

12-Step Model

The 12-Step model is a powerful support system for people battling co-occurring disorders. It’s a structured program with group meetings and individual sponsors who offer guidance and encouragement. Some examples include Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).

These groups provide a safe space to:
  • Share experiences
  • Learn new coping skills
  • Build a network of support
This sense of belonging and shared journey can benefit those with co-occurring disorders.

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)

REBT helps people identify irrational thoughts and beliefs that fuel negative emotions and behaviors. It works by challenging these unhelpful patterns and replacing them with realistic ones. This helps people learn how to better cope with triggers.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)

MET focuses on exploring a person’s own reasons for change. It also builds their confidence in their ability to recover from substance abuse and mental health issues. This therapeutic modality acts as a bridge for individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders.

The therapist uses supportive conversations to explore the person’s feelings about change. They also help build their motivation to address both issues. This teamwork empowers people to set personal recovery goals and develop healthy coping methods.

Alternative Approaches

Skyline Recovery Center offers alternative therapeutic approaches alongside traditional therapies. These approaches might include:
  • Art and Music Therapy: Encourages emotional expression.
  • Mindfulness Meditation: Helps train the mind to focus on the present moment, reduce stress, and improve emotional regulation.
  • Yoga: Combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.
  • Breathwork: Involves specific breathing techniques that can activate the nervous system’s relaxation response and improve emotional well-being.
  • Sound Baths: Uses various instruments to create calming soundscapes that can help reduce stress, improve sleep, and promote a sense of peace.
Following a holistic treatment model can empower individuals with co-occurring disorders. It helps them overcome their challenges and build a life of lasting recovery.

Advocating for Accessible Treatment

Access to specialized care for individuals with co-occurring disorders is crucial. Many people facing a dual diagnosis struggle to find appropriate treatment due to barriers like cost, location, and lack of awareness.
Ensuring everyone has access to high-quality, integrated care is essential for effective recovery.

Addressing Treatment Disparities

Those with co-occurring disorders often face significant gaps in accessing appropriate treatment. The most common barriers include the mental health system not being equipped to address co-occurring disorders and the inability to coordinate mental health treatment with substance abuse treatment.3
Accessible and specialized care programs are essential to ensure effective treatment. Programs like Skyline Recovery Center consider:
  • Addressing both mental health disorders and substance use disorders simultaneously.
  • Seamless coordination between mental health and addiction treatment specialists.
  • Recognizing the potential role of trauma in the development of co-occurring disorders.
  • Expanding resources.
  • Improving insurance coverage.
  • Increasing the availability of specialized programs.
By advocating for accessible care, we can help bridge the treatment gap and ensure individuals with co-occurring disorders have the opportunity to heal.

Promoting Awareness About Co-occurring Disorders

Stigma and a lack of awareness can prevent people from seeking help for co-occurring disorders. Despite 7.7 million adults having co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, many people are unaware they can develop two or more disorders at once.4
Communities can support those affected by these disorders by promoting understanding. Providing information about treatment options is also crucial. Educational initiatives can help raise awareness.
This can play a vital role in dismantling barriers to care. Educational efforts should aim to:
  • Increase public understanding of the prevalence and nature of these disorders.
  • Highlight the effectiveness of treatment options available.
  • Reduce stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders. 
By educating communities, we can create a supportive environment. People with co-occurring disorders will feel empowered to seek treatment.

Collaboration Between Treatment Providers, Mental Health Organizations, and Policymakers

Encouraging partnerships is essential. The partnerships should be between treatment providers, mental health organizations, and policymakers.
The goal is to prioritize integrated care for co-occurring conditions. Working together, we can create better treatment programs and policies. These will address the unique needs of people with dual diagnoses.
Advocacy for more funding, research, and legislative support is paramount. It helps ensure that integrated care models are widely used and accessible. Skyline Recovery Center actively participates in such collaborations. We aim to improve the overall care system for those with multiple disorders.
Through collaboration, we can build a healthcare system that meets the complex needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders.
co-occurring disorders

The Power of Integrated Care for Co-occurring Disorders

Skyline Recovery Center is dedicated to providing comprehensive and integrated care for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Our approach is centered on addressing both conditions simultaneously through a variety of specialized services and programs.

Here are some key features that set Skyline Recovery Center apart:

Multidisciplinary Team

Our team consists of experienced professionals, including:
  • Psychiatrists
  • Psychologists
  • Nurses
  • Addiction counselors
  • Social workers
This diverse expertise ensures that each patient receives holistic care tailored to their unique needs.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Every client at Skyline Recovery Center undergoes a detailed assessment to develop a personalized treatment plan. These plans integrate evidence-based therapies for both mental health and addiction. This ensures a complete approach to recovery.

Specialized Dual Diagnosis Programs

Our specialized dual diagnosis programs address the complex relationship between mental health and substance use disorders.
They include:
  • Individual therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Medication management
  • Family involvement
  • Holistic treatment

Aftercare

We equip our clients with the skills, resources, and support networks necessary for life after treatment. This helps ensure individuals are prepared to navigate challenges, maintain sobriety, and cultivate a fulfilling life.

Take the First Step Toward Healing With SRC

Co-occurring disorders are a widespread challenge. However, individuals can achieve lasting recovery with the proper support and resources.

If you or someone you know is struggling with co-occurring disorders, we encourage you to reach out to Skyline Recovery Center. We offer confidential consultations and can help you connect with the appropriate treatment options.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those facing co-occurring disorders.
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Resources

  1. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html
  2. https://www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4417038/
  4. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/comorbidity/comorbidity-substance-use-other-mental-disorders-infographic
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