According to SAMHSA’s 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, about 20.4 million adults in the U.S. are living with co-occurring disorders, meaning they face both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder (SUD) simultaneously.
When these conditions occur together, they can intensify each other, making recovery more challenging. That’s why understanding these complex disorders—and exploring the right treatment options—is essential for a successful and lasting recovery.
Co-occurring disorders, also called dual diagnosis, happen when someone is living with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder (SUD). These overlapping conditions can make each other worse, creating unique challenges and making recovery more complex.
Some of the mental health conditions most often associated with substance use include:
Characterized by ongoing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in everyday activities.
Marked by intense fear, constant worry, or stress that interferes with daily life.
Involves severe mood swings, shifting from intense highs (mania) to deep lows (depression).
Develops after experiencing traumatic events and can include symptoms such as flashbacks and intense anxiety.
Many people with mental health conditions may use drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. Over time, this can create a cycle where both the mental health challenges and substance use worsen. Effective recovery requires treatment that addresses both conditions at the same time for the best outcome.
People with co-occurring disorders may display a mix of signs, such as increased substance use and shifts in mood, making it more challenging to identify and treat both conditions together. Common symptoms include:
Several factors can contribute to the development of co-occurring disorders, including:
The factors above play a significant role in the development of co-occurring disorders, 8also known as dual diagnosis. Certain risk factors can make someone more likely to face both mental health challenges and substance use problems:
People living with mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder sometimes use drugs or alcohol to numb emotional pain. Unfortunately, substance use only hides the symptoms instead of treating the root causes—and often makes the mental health challenges even worse over time.
Individuals with existing mental health challenges are at a higher risk of developing addiction and co-occurring disorders. Research shows that when conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD go untreated, people are more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope.
Challenging life situations—such as financial struggles, past trauma, or growing up around substance use—can increase the risk of developing both mental health conditions and addiction.
Successful recovery takes a well-rounded approach that treats both mental health challenges and substance use together. Some key treatment options include:
Bringing mental health and substance use treatments together into one coordinated plan.
Using prescribed medications to help reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms.
Incorporating evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support recovery.
Building peer support through groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
Engaging family members in the recovery process to strengthen support and improve outcomes.
Incorporating holistic approaches such as mindfulness practices and art therapy into the recovery journey.
Integrated treatment plays a crucial role in effectively addressing co-occurring disorders. It typically includes:
If you think you or someone you care about may be facing co-occurring disorders, here are some steps to help you get started:
Seek out treatment centers that have expertise in co-occurring disorders care.
Check the qualifications and credentials of the treatment professionals you’re considering.
Ask about the treatment approaches and methods the program uses for recovery.
The environment and overall atmosphere of a treatment program can significantly impact recovery success.
Reach out to healthcare professionals or trusted support networks for referrals and guidance.
Organizations like SAMHSA offer helpful resources to connect you with the right treatment options.
Staying on track with recovery from co-occurring disorders takes consistent effort and the right support. Key elements include:
Ongoing support even after the initial treatment program ends.
Creating a personalized plan to handle triggers and manage cravings effectively.
Strengthening relationships with peers and family members to create a solid support system for accountability.
Promoting healthy habits like regular exercise and balanced nutrition to support overall well-being.
Scheduling regular therapy sessions to maintain emotional support and track progress.
Learning practical techniques to improve emotional regulation and coping skills.
Knowing the costs of treatment is an important part of planning for recovery. Some factors that can affect the price include:
Outpatient programs are usually more affordable than inpatient treatment options.
The longer the treatment program lasts, the higher the overall cost can be.
Many insurance plans help cover the cost of mental health and substance use treatment services.
The cost of treatment can vary widely depending on where you live.
Programs that offer specialized services or therapies may come with higher costs.
Co-occurring disorders need a thorough, well-rounded approach for real healing to happen. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options is the first step toward getting help. Integrated care that treats both mental health and substance use at the same time is essential for long-term recovery. If you or someone you love is dealing with co-occurring disorders, don’t wait—reach out for support today.
At Arizona IOP, we offer compassionate, personalized care designed for people facing addiction and co-occurring disorders. Contact us now to start your recovery journey and find the ongoing support you need for lasting wellness.
