SUD and Mental Health Disorders
Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment
Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment
Co-occurring disorders occur when someone experiences both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health disorder at the same time.1 To address the complex nature of co-occurring disorders, many treatment programs offer a range of integrated services to manage both conditions.
Mental health and substance use are often connected. Some people struggle with both a mental health disorder and substance use disorder (SUD) at the same time, sometimes called co-occurring disorders.1 Co-occurring disorders involve having at least one mental health disorder in addition to SUD, at the same time. For example, an individual diagnosed with an opioid use disorder (OUD) may also be diagnosed with depression.1 According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 17 million people aged 18 or older reported having a co-occurring disorder.2
To address the complex nature of co-occurring disorders, many treatment programs offer a range of integrated services to manage both SUD and any concurrent mental health issues simultaneously.1 It’s important to treat both disorders at the same time so one doesn’t go left untreated, leaving the individual with a higher relapse potential.1 Through professional treatment for co-occurring disorders, the successful management of both SUD and any co-occurring mental health disorders can help promote your recovery.
What Are Co-Occurring Disorders?
A co-occurring disorder is marked by the coexistence of a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health disorder at the same time or in succession.1 Research suggests around half of people with SUD will also experience a co-occurring mental health disorder, or vice versa.3 Though SUD can occur with mental illness, it’s important to note that this does not always mean that one causes the other.4
Historically, co-occurring disorders have been called dual diagnosis or comorbidity. Co-occurring disorders is the preferred term when referring to the existence of both an SUD and a mental health disorder.
The Relationship Between SUD & Mental Health
Genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the development of SUD, a mental health disorder, or the co-occurrence of both. Sometimes, a mental health disorder can lead to SUD development, or vice versa. One explanation involves an individual using alcohol or drugs to cope with the signs and symptoms of depression. This may develop into a co-occurring SUD.12 SUD and co-occurring mental health disorders may also be more prevalent among certain populations. For instance, 60% of adolescents in community-based treatment centers for SUD have also been diagnosed with a co-occurring mental health disorder. Both disorders can influence and impact each other, and there may even be additional conditions that influence one or both disorders, including environmental factors (e.g., homelessness).1
Diagnosing Co-Occurring Disorders
The bidirectional relationship between SUDs and mental disorders can make diagnosing and treating both conditions challenging because there are often overlapping symptoms.13 It’s ideal for a diagnosis to be made while an individual doesn’t have substances in their system.14 Diagnosis will likely be done at a treatment facility, by a medical professional. Screening and assessment are key to identifying and treating individuals with co-occurring disorders. There is a multifactor, biopsychosocial, 12-step assessment process to identify symptoms and diagnoses that may be present.
How to Treat Co-Occurring Disorders
According to The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), treating both SUD and co-occurring mental health disorders at the same time is more effective than treating them separately.17 Co-occurring disorder treatment can take place in various settings depending on the severity of a person’s condition and the level of care they need.1 Recovery looks different for everyone, but treatment usually includes a combination of medication and behavioral therapies.
Finding a Co-Occurring Treatment Center
If you or your loved one has decided to seek treatment and are looking for treatment centers that specialize in co-occurring disorders treatment, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. For example, will you need inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, or both? Speaking with a medical professional is one of the best ways to determine this. Once you have a general idea of the treatment you’ll need, you can search for specialized co-occurring disorders treatment tracks.
Other considerations may include whether traveling out of state for treatment is a viable option. For some people, leaving home for treatment may remove them from negative environments and triggers that may be contributing to their problems. Seeking co-occurring disorder treatment programs out-of-state opens more possibilities for finding specialized treatment for co-occurring disorders. To determine the best option for you, you may consider factors such as access to social and emotional support systems, treatment needs and goals, and rehab costs. Our rehab directory lets you easily search for a treatment center near you.
Does Insurance Cover Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment?
Yes, thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), treatment for mental health disorders, including substance use disorder (SUD), is considered an essential benefit that insurance providers must cover.18 This means, your insurance may be able to cover some or all your co-occurring disorder rehab treatment. However, coverage may vary depending on your needs and insurance plan. To find out if your policy covers co-occurring disorders, verify your insurance by filling out the form below or contact an admissions navigator for free at . Your information is kept 100% confidential.