When two or more health conditions are present in an individual, it is referred to as comorbidity or co-occurring disorders. Some of the most common comorbidities are addiction and mental health disorders, which are close companions. The likelihood of having a mental health condition alongside substance use disorder is very high as either one can contribute to the other. Because they are so closely related, dual diagnosis treatment programs are essential for any addiction treatment center. At Amatus Recovery Centers, we know that no addiction treatment program is complete without addressing all comorbidities such as substance use disorder and mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. We strive to provide comprehensive treatment through our dual diagnosis treatment program so that you have the best chance of lasting recovery. Complete our online form or give us a call at [Direct] to learn how we can help you overcome the challenges of co-occurring disorders.
What Is Comorbidity?
Comorbidity simply means that you are experiencing two or more medical conditions at the same time. These can be mental, physical, or psychological conditions that occur together and may also be referred to as co-occurring disorders. Some of the most common comorbidities are:
- Diabetes and hypertension
- Depression and anxiety
- Cancer and depression
- Obesity and diabetes
- Anxiety and substance use disorder
- Depression and substance use disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder
Mental health conditions tend to tag along with substance use disorders, and either one can lead to or exacerbate the other. For example, a person may try self-medicating their anxiety with benzodiazepines to help them feel calmer and less stressed. On the flip side, a person experimenting with benzos to feel more relaxed may become dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms that trigger anxiety and insomnia. Since either condition can lead to the other, both must be addressed for the most effective treatment.
How Are Co-occurring Disorders Treated?
Co-occurring disorders are treated with dual diagnosis programs, meaning they aim to address two or more diagnoses. The most effective dual diagnosis treatment programs consider the needs of the mind, body, and spirit in healing. When you enroll in a treatment program to manage comorbidity, you may receive:
- Medical care for physical health conditions
- Medication to relieve withdrawal symptoms during detox
- Medication to treat mental health disorders
- Behavioral therapies to improve your decision-making and interpersonal skills
- Group therapy for peer support and to strengthen coping skills
- Holistic therapies to improve your overall health, reduce stress, and support emotional well-being
- Ongoing support from addiction treatment center staff to keep you engaged in your treatment program and help you sustain recovery
- Case management to help refer you to any necessary social services or programs to ensure your safety.
Any one of these components on its own will be ineffective in fully treating co-occurring disorders. That is why merely going through a seven-day detox will not be enough to keep a person from using again. Untreated mental health conditions like anxiety and depression will persist, making staying away from drugs or alcohol incredibly challenging. A person must be able to find relief from these conditions without substance use, and the best way to do that is through a personalized treatment plan consisting of various therapies and medication if applicable.
Find Comprehensive Treatment for Comorbidity at Amatus Recovery Centers
For the most effective treatment for comorbidity, you can trust Amatus Recovery Centers. Our dual diagnosis treatment programs are designed to treat the whole person. Using a combination of behavioral and holistic therapies, medication, and case management, we can set you on the path to successful recovery from co-occurring disorders. Call us at [Direct] or fill out our online form to learn more about how we can help you overcome comorbid mental health disorders and addiction.