Addiction rarely exists alone. People with substance use disorders typically have a past of trauma or instability that impacts their mental health. Common examples are anxiety paired with opioid addiction or depression with alcoholism.
When mental health concerns develop alongside addiction, or when one contributes to the onset of the other, the diagnosis is known as co-occurring disorders. For lifelong recovery to be possible, both conditions must be treated at the same time. Otherwise, a cycle of relapse and worsening can begin.
Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders
A co-occurring disorder is when a person experiences a mental health condition at the same time as a substance use disorder. This is also known as dual diagnosis. Though not uncommon, co-occurring disorders can be difficult to diagnose and treat due to the psychological complexity of each condition. In fact, both disorders can exacerbate one another.
Co-occurring disorders are treatable. By addressing both conditions at the same time through intentional treatment programs, individuals can create a “normal” life led with purpose.
What is the Connection Between Addiction and Mental Health?
Addiction can develop for many reasons, but at the root of it, addiction often stems from an imbalance in the mental state of a person. Factors such as chronic stress, unresolved trauma, or a genetic vulnerability, addiction is deeply connected to mental and emotional health.
Genetic Predisposition
Some individuals are genetically predisposed to addiction. A family history of similar conditions puts them at a higher risk of developing a mental health condition.
Environmental Factors
Growing up or spending significant time around drugs or alcohol leaves individuals at a heightened risk of developing an addiction. Exposure to such environments normalizes substance use and lowers perceived risks.
Self-Medication
In other instances, addiction can follow mental health issues. In trying to alleviate the symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety, individuals self-medicate and become reliant on substances.
Signs and Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders
The symptoms of co-occurring disorders can be physical, mental, and behavioral. It becomes difficult to maintain the status quo in their lives, ultimately impacting their home life, work life, and social life. Common signs a person is struggling are:
- Major mood swings
- Increased agitation
- Withdrawing from social interactions
- Declining performance at work or school
- Neglecting personal hygiene
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Increase in substance use
- Noticeable changes in weight
- Financial struggles
How are Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers Different?
Dual diagnosis treatment centers have programs designed and clinical staff trained to treat mental health and addiction at the same time. Rather than addressing each concern individually, which does not set the patient up for long-term recovery, these facilities take an integrated approach that honors the connection between both diagnoses.
Various forms of addiction therapy and thought reprocessing are used during treatment, including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a form of talk therapy that focuses on identifying harmful thought patterns and reframing them. With time, patients learn to recognize the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This empowers them to take control of their emotions rather than the other way around.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, is another form of talk therapy that increases resilience. Individuals who consistently see a DBT therapist learn practical coping skills. Over time, this improves their emotional regulation, allowing them to rebuild self-trust and relationships. They can then take these tools and use them in real-life situations once treatment is completed.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, like tapping fingers or having the eyes track a moving light, to assist the brain with accessing traumatic thoughts with little to no distress to the client. Over an 8-step therapeutic process, patients access traumatic instances. Rather than sitting in the emotions of the past, they observe their own response and reframe it. Over time, these memories have a weaker hold on the patient and don’t bring up intense feelings around the memories.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
In order to move forward, patients must be willing to show themselves kindness. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) leverages mindfulness practices to guide patients to understanding themselves on a deeper level. It teaches them to recognize their past behaviors without judgment and take clear next steps in alignment with their values.
Break the Cycle with Dual Diagnosis Treatment in San Diego
At Shoreline Recovery Center in San Diego, we treat the person, not just the diagnosis. With our dual diagnosis treatment program, individuals work through their past to create a purposeful, fulfilling future. Our care is rooted in respect and community. Reach out today to learn more.
