The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that of the 20.3 million U.S. adults with a substance use disorder, 37.9% also have a mental health condition. Addiction treatment programs that provide services for both substance use and additional mental health concerns are the best option for those with co-occurring conditions. Contact Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient today at 888.498.2376 to learn more.
What Do Co-Occurring Disorders Mean?
Also referred to as co-morbidity or dual diagnosis, the term co-occurring disorders means that a person has more than one mental health concern at the same time. Though it can refer to other combinations, the term is typically used when an individual has a substance or alcohol use disorder and one or more additional conditions, such as depression, PTSD or anxiety disorders.
When psychiatric and substance use disorders co-occur, they can differ in severity and change over time. For example, a veteran with severe symptoms of PTSD may start misusing alcohol to medicate their symptoms. At this point, depression is the more serious mental health concern.
If, over time, they also develop a severe alcohol use disorder, the addiction may become the more immediate health challenge. People with a combination of conditions often require specialized and longer treatment periods to address both issues. This could be in the form of an intensive outpatient program or a PHP.
Who Needs a Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Program in Mississippi?
The symptoms of co-occurring disorders can be complex. The signs of an addiction disorder and the symptoms of a mental health condition may overlap. Specific warning signs differ depending on which substance a person is using and what type of mental health concern they have.
However, general signs you could benefit from a co-occurring disorders treatment program include:
- Continuing to use a substance even though it is negatively impacting your life
- Drug cravings
- Going through withdrawal when you try to quit or cut back
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Changes in personality or behavior
- Mood swings
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Poor hygiene
- Anger and irritability
- Suicidal thoughts
People with co-occurring disorders have a higher risk of hospitalization, homelessness, incarceration, sexual and physical victimization, and serious medical conditions.
How Are Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Connected?
Substance use and mental health issues are closely linked. Unfortunately, over half of those with mental health concerns do not get the treatment they need. This increases the risk of self-medicating, which means using drugs or alcohol to manage mental health symptoms.
While substances may bring temporary relief, they cause more problems in the long run. When the effects wear off, symptoms may worsen, leading to more substance use and the development of an addiction disorder.
In addition, drugs and alcohol affect brain function and can cause mental health conditions. The isolation and stress of living with a substance use disorder and changes in the brain may lead to depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. In order to be most effective, mental health and addiction treatment should be integrated, addressing all the client’s health needs simultaneously.
What to Expect from a Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Center?
A comprehensive co-occurring disorders treatment program offers a multifaceted approach to wellness. Every client’s needs are different, but you can expect a complete suite of services, including detox, therapy, medication-assisted treatment, aftercare programs, and relapse prevention.
Your outpatient treatment program begins with a complete evaluation of your physical and psychological health needs. A combination of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, individual therapy, education, peer support, and medication, is typical.
Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient Offers a Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Program in Mississippi
At our co-occurring disorders treatment center, we offer a full range of program options, including, men’s rehab, women’s rehab, a sober living program, group therapy programs, and more. Speak with one of our compassionate admissions experts today if you or someone you know needs the services of a co-occurring disorders treatment program.
Call Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient at 888.498.2376 or contact us through our online form.
