If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, knowing that help is available is vital. However, it is not always a straightforward process. Sometimes, addiction comes alongside another mental health issue, a co-occurring disorder. This is where dual diagnosis treatment comes in. Call 888.341.3607 to speak with someone from the knowledgeable team at Ashwood Recovery about examples of co-occurring disorders and examples of dual diagnosis cases.
What Are Co-Occurring Disorders?
A co-occurring disorder is a mental health issue that occurs alongside an addiction. Co-occurring conditions are relatively common among people with substance use disorders (SUDs).
Risk Factors for Co-Occurring Disorders
The risk factors that lead to co-occurring disorders vary widely. Although the exact causative factors are still unknown, several elements are associated with an increased risk of co-occurring disorders. Some of these factors are genetic, while others are environmental. Environmental factors include:
- Traumatic experiences
- A history of abuse
- Poverty
- Chronic stress
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that nearly eight million adults in the United States have co-occurring disorders.
Examples of Co-Occurring Disorders
Some issues that may develop alongside SUDs include the following:
- Anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Depression disorders
- Eating disorders
Studies show that people struggling with co-occurring disorders are more likely to face hospitalizations, incarceration, and unemployment.
What Is a Dual Diagnosis Case?
A dual diagnosis case refers to a patient with two conditions simultaneously. In addiction treatment settings, it usually describes someone with a substance use disorder and another mental health issue. However, sometimes healthcare providers use the term more broadly to refer to other simultaneous cases of medical or psychiatric conditions.
Common Examples of Dual Diagnosis Cases
Some of the most common examples of dual diagnosis cases include:
- Alcohol use disorder and anxiety disorders
- Opioid use disorder and depression disorders
- Stimulant use disorder and bipolar disorder
- Cocaine use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Alcohol and opioid use disorders also frequently occur with depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. It is vital to seek treatment for any co-occurring disorders and addiction.
What to Expect from Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment aims to simultaneously address all aspects of a person’s mental health and addiction. This holistic approach is essential to promote long-term sustainable sobriety. Dual diagnosis treatment may involve a combination of the following:
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – Medication can help support long-term sobriety if appropriate.
- Individual therapy – This type of therapy helps patients identify the underlying causes of their addiction and other mental health issues.
- Group therapy – Undergoing group therapy is beneficial for both addiction treatment and mental health treatment as it provides a supportive environment to share experiences with others who understand what you are going through.
- Family therapy – This type of therapy helps family members re-establish trust and understanding that may have been damaged due to addiction.
- Holistic therapies – These alternative treatments help people focus on the mind, body, and spirit connection for improved recovery.
- 12-step programs – Many people find these programs beneficial for addiction treatment and mental health.
It is crucial to find a treatment center specializing in dual diagnosis cases. The team will be better able to diagnose the full range of conditions and create an individualized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.
Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Idaho at Ashwood Recovery
Getting treatment for addiction and another mental health issue may seem daunting, but it is essential to achieving lasting sobriety. At Ashwood Recovery, we are committed to helping individuals achieve recovery goals by providing comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment. Contact Ashwood Recovery today at 888.341.3607 to learn more about our personalized treatment plans in Idaho.