Medical Providers:
Dr. Michael Vines, MD
Alex Spritzer, FNP, CARN-AP, PMHNP
Clinical Providers:
Natalie Foster, LPC-S, MS
Last Updated: December 19, 2022
Although co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders are common, only 18% of treatment centers are equipped to provide true dual diagnosis care. That’s why it’s crucial to research a facility’s programs before committing to treatment. To learn more about your dual diagnosis recovery options and the specialized mental health program at Arizona IOP, reach out to our admissions team today.
A person with a dual diagnosis shows signs of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder.
Nearly half of individuals with a substance use disorder—around 8 million adults in the U.S.—also have a mental illness, a condition often called a co-occurring disorder.
A major challenge of co-occurring disorders is how the conditions influence each other. It can be hard to determine which came first, and they often create a cycle that worsens both issues.
For example, a person might drink heavily due to depression, but the alcohol can intensify their depression, prompting even more drinking, and the cycle continues.
Major depressive disorder, or clinical depression, is a severe mood disorder that impacts how you feel, think, and behave. It can cause deep sadness, hopelessness, feelings of worthlessness, and even suicidal thoughts or attempts.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive worry occurring most days for at least six months. This worry can involve work, health, social situations, and other areas, often interfering with daily life.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) develops after a person experiences a frightening or traumatic event. Those with PTSD often relive the trauma through flashbacks and nightmares.
Bipolar disorder is a condition marked by extreme mood swings due to unusual changes in energy, activity, and focus. All three forms of bipolar disorder involve cycles of elevated and depressive moods.
