Co-occurring Disorder Treatment in Massachusetts
Substance use disorders are complex and often have many causes. They can be intertwined with various aspects of a person’s life and, consequently, may be tied to someone’s mental health. When this goes beyond the typical struggles of early recovery, a person may need co-occurring disorder treatment.
A co-occurring disorder refers to when someone struggles with more than one disorder simultaneously. These conditions are believed to be connected with one condition exacerbating symptoms or leading to the onset of the other. This term is often used to describe people experiencing mental health symptoms alongside a substance use disorder. Because the two conditions are intertwined, treatment for co-occurring disorders includes working through both conditions and exploring their comorbid relationship.
Similarly, a dual diagnosis refers to when someone is diagnosed with two separate conditions but is often applied to conditions outside of substance use. While the two may still be connected, dual diagnosis treatment may require different treatment because it involves two separate and often equally problematic diagnoses. For this reason, dual diagnosis treatment centers typically have both addiction treatment and mental health treatment programs.
Some common co-occurring disorders with substance use include:
- Anxiety
- Mood disorders
- Eating disorders
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Reach out to Swift River today at 888.451.5895 for more information.
The Connection Between Mental Health and Substance Use
The relationship between mental health and substance use is complex, especially when co-occurring disorders may be involved.
In some cases, mental health conditions may lead to addiction. When someone does not get the mental health care they need, they may turn to drugs or alcohol to help them cope with their symptoms. While they may find relief, the feeling is fleeting, and in many cases, substance use will worsen their mental health symptoms. As a result, people may increase the amount and frequency of use until addiction forms.
In other instances, substance use may lead to a mental health condition. Substance use often results in isolation and various problems in a person’s life, leading to mental illness or worsening underlying mental health symptoms.
Regardless of how each disorder began, outpatient or residential drug treatment programs alone will often be ineffective long-term. A dual diagnosis rehab or co-occurring disorder treatment program is necessary to ensure both conditions are cared for and the individual can find lasting success in recovery. Early recognition of these conditions can also make a big difference.Â
Signs Someone Needs Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment
Unfortunately, co-occurring disorders can be progressive. When left untreated, the problems surrounding these conditions could escalate to alarming and dangerous levels. The best way to avoid these issues is to get someone into mental health and addiction treatment at the first sign of a co-occurring disorder.
Some co-occurring disorder symptoms may include:
- Using substances to cope with negative emotions
- Social isolation
- Risky and erratic behavior
- A drastic change in personality
- Mood swings
- Suicidal ideation
If you or someone you care about is showing these signs of co-occurring disorders, get them help by contacting Swift River at 888.451.5895.
Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment at Swift River
As a co-occurring disorder treatment center in Massachusetts, we recognize that long-term sobriety is not possible without comprehensive healing. We offer integrated co-occurring conditions treatment options to help our patients find lasting success in recovery.
Because co-occurring disorders can be complex and everyone is unique, each patient will begin their journey with us with a full assessment to determine the best level of care for them and their program needs. Throughout their treatment, these assessments will continue to monitor the patient’s progress and be used to make changes to their unique treatment plan when needed.
We use evidence-based treatment modalities that can be adjusted to align with the patient’s mental health needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one such psychotherapy technique that can be especially effective during co-occurring disorder treatment as it focuses on breaking down negative thoughts that can perpetuate addiction.
Alongside these treatment modalities, patients will also have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of activities and services designed to enhance the treatment journey and aid in recovery. This diverse curriculum of programs promotes comprehensive healing and may boost the overall well-being of some patients. Together these programs can build a solid foundation for lasting recovery.Â
Reach Out Now to Swift River
Battling both substance use and mental health conditions can be daunting, but it is not something that anyone should do alone. If you or a loved one needs help, our Massachusetts rehab center is here. Contact us 888.451.5895 to learn more.
