When an individual presents with both a substance use disorder and at least one mental health condition, he or she is said to have co-occurring disorders. This is also known as having a dual diagnosis. According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 47 million adults in the US have at least one mental health condition, and almost 19 million have a substance use disorder.

Co-occurring disorders treatment is designed to help individuals recover from both substance abuse and any underlying mental health conditions, which may often go undiagnosed. Because substance abuse and mental health issues can perpetuate one another, it is critical to treat them simultaneously for the best chance at long-term, sustainable recovery.

Fast Facts About Co-occurring Disorders

An individual’s alcohol and drug use is often closely connected to their need to self-medicate personal pain, whether physical or psychological. While a person’s history, physiology, and social context can contribute to this, the impulse to use mood-altering substances may also arise from depression, anxiety, phobias, or even more serious conditions, such as schizophrenia, personality disorders, or bipolar disorder. Mental Health America states that one in three individuals with depression also struggle with substance use or dependence.

According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: 

  • Approximately 6.2 million adults aged 26 and older represent the majority of those suffering from co-occurring disorders.
  • Nearly 7% of adults ages 18 to 25 have co-occurring disorders.
  • Just over 3 million adults report having a serious mental health condition (compared to any mental health condition) in tandem with a substance use disorder.
  • About 1.4% of adolescents in the US (roughly 345,000) reported experiencing a major depressive episode and having a substance use disorder.

History of Co-occurring Disorders Treatment

For the majority of addiction treatment history, rehabilitation options for those with a dual diagnosis were often divided among organizations only treating one condition or the other. The concept that substance abuse and mental health conditions could occur together, and even perpetuate one another, was not recognized until the late 20th century, and it is still gaining ground today.

It was in the late 1980s and early ’90s that the behavioral health industry began tailoring substance abuse treatment to address the needs of specific age and demographic groups, including those who had co-occurring mental health conditions. Since then, co-occurring disorders treatment has prominently emerged as an effective model for facilitating long-term recovery. Treatment professionals in this field continue to discover and develop ways to help those with a dual diagnosis find lasting healing. 

Co-occurring Disorders Treatment at Serenity View

At Serenity View, we focus on treating both substance use and mental health conditions in the same setting to give individuals the optimal chance at long-term, sustainable recovery. Our approach includes a mix of behavioral and holistic therapies, including group and individual therapy, yoga and meditation, and an emphasis on wellness and nutrition. 

In addition to addressing the root causes and symptoms of co-occurring conditions, we educate our patients and empower them to own their recovery. We treat them with the respect and dignity that they deserve, equipping them with life skills and new coping mechanisms to deal with the challenges they face. 

If you or a loved one needs co-occurring disorders treatment, please get in touch with us today. Our team of experts are ready to help you get started on the path to comprehensive, whole-life recovery. 

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Get answers to your questions

If you or a loved one would like to know more about treatment at Serenity View Recovery Center, please give us a call to speak to one of our trained intake coordinators for assistance. 

Call 833-757-5697