Co-occurring disorders occur when a person has both a mental health disorder and addiction. These conditions may include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or bipolar disorder. They may be using prescription or illicit drugs or struggling with alcohol abuse. In every situation, a person with these conditions is unable to resolve these concerns on their own. That’s why treatment for them is available at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston. Contact our team today at 866.516.8356 to learn about our treatment programs.
How Do Co-Occurring Disorders Happen?
Either of these conditions can occur first. Sometimes a mental health disorder is present. To deal with its symptoms, a person may choose to use drugs or alcohol, which may help them stop feeling or thinking, for example. Alcohol is a depressant that can help to minimize the symptoms of anxiety. Stimulants can help those who are battling depression.
Other times, the use of drugs or alcohol recreationally can bring on the symptoms of a mental health disorder. A person may use drugs with friends, for example, and, over time, develop anxiety. Sometimes a person is predisposed to mental health conditions due to family history.
No matter which one occurs first, both require professional treatment.
How Co-Occurring Disorders Are Treated
Treating both conditions at one time is necessary to ensure a person has the tools and resources to heal fully. This program is called dual diagnosis treatment. When a person is engaged in this type of treatment, several things may occur:
- Detox occurs to rid the body of the drugs they are using
- Medications can treat the mental health disorder’s chemical imbalances, as needed
- Medications can help ease withdrawal and cravings
- Talk therapy begins to help people learn about their condition
- Each person discovers strategies for overcoming their challenges, stress, and relationships to prevent relapse
Dual diagnosis is a new way of thinking and responding to situations. During this type of therapy, a person learns how to manage their condition by becoming more alert to their negative thought processes and inaccurate thinking. Over time, they develop the skills necessary to manage stress more productively. That’s empowering and allows for better decision-making.
When Do You Need Addiction Treatment for Mental Health Needs?
Some people have an addiction to drugs or alcohol and don’t recognize it. They may believe they have a mental health disorder that they control using these substances. However, addiction and dependence are prevalent in those with mental health challenges. You may not feel as though you drink because you need to, but that’s still likely occurring.
In addition, you may benefit from addiction treatment if you are using substances each day or wanting to do so. Furthermore, you may also benefit from addiction treatment if you are facing health complications, overdoses, or relapse. It’s also wise to work closely with a detox team if you are feeling signs of withdrawal and cravings due to not having access to these substances. These are all indications of addiction.
Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston to Start Getting Help
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we work closely with our clients to create a profound improvement in their lives and with their health. We work closely with our clients to provide insights into what’s happening, including dealing with past trauma or managing hormonal changes. In our treatment program, you are safe, and you can count on seeing improvement. Some of the treatments available include:
Co-occurring disorders are debilitating, leading to numerous complications with health and quality of life as long as they continue to go untreated. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, our team is ready to help you by providing exceptional service and compassionate counselors. Now is your time to heal. Call 866.516.8356 or connect with us online.
