For some people, the struggle with addiction occurs alongside other issues. A co-occurring disorder is when some mental health issue happens alongside substance use disorders. Going into rehab for only addiction treatment will not suffice for those who also suffer from mental health issues. At Harmony Hills, we know that to successfully find recovery, those with these co-occurring issues need to enter a dual diagnosis treatment program.
Common Causes of Co-Occurring Disorders
Mental health issues and addictions often have similar root causes. Risk factors that can increase the chances of either problem include stress, trauma, and genetics. Additionally, both problems can impact the same regions of the brain.
Genetics plays a significant role in the development of mental disorders or substance use problems. Many of those who suffer from addiction have a genetic susceptibility to the problem. Genes could cause more severe responses to stress or have more intense reactions to drugs that make the substances more addictive.
Changes in the environment, coupled with genetics, can also impact developing either a mental health problem or addiction. Therefore, some people could have genetic factors but not develop issues because they don’t have triggering events. Conversely, those without these risk factors can also find themselves with a dual diagnosis and could benefit from a mental health treatment center.
Problems that Feed Each Other
Additionally, having a mental illness or addiction can increase the chances of developing the other. In fact, among those who suffer from a substance use disorder, about half will also experience a mental illness at some time. The reverse also holds, with about half of people living with mental disorders experiencing addiction.
The issues seem to feed on each other. For example, the pain of mental health problems can lead to some people to misuse drugs or alcohol in an attempt to ease the hurt. People who experience substance use disorders also have changes in the brain that can make developing depression, anxiety, or other mental disorders higher. If they already have these conditions, the substance use disorder may worsen mental illnesses until those problems reach severe states.
Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment in FL
The most effective treatments for co-occurring issues include methods that help you stop using drugs or alcohol while working through mental health problems. Both concerns need co-current treatment for the most effective recovery.
To assist in the work, treatment facilities should offer a dual diagnosis program. This type of program helps with both addiction and mental illness through scientifically verified methods. Common treatment options for co-occurring disorders include the following:
- Medication
- Individual therapy program
- Group therapy program
- Drug detox program
- Teaching relapse prevention techniques
During treatment, the clients must want to continue the process. A well-appointed, comfortable facility and the drive to recover are important criteria for keeping the difficult process moving forward. By engaging clients to become agents in their recovery, a facility can guide clients in the correct direction toward overcoming the addiction and mental disorder.
Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment in FL at Harmony Hills
For those who have co-occurring issues, suffering in silence does not have to continue. With help from our dual diagnosis program, you can work toward recovering from both mental illness and addiction. By combining your efforts with our guidance, you can become our partner in your rehab efforts.
Our programs include the following ways to help those with mental health illnesses and addictions:
- Trauma therapy program
- Family therapy program
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Other individual therapies
- 12-step program for addiction
- Detox and withdrawal assistance
To get started on getting over co-occurring disorders, phone us at Harmony Hills at 855.494.0357. We will become your partners in the journey toward a life of recovery that no longer relies on drugs or alcohol.
