Treating Concurrent Disorders
What is a concurrent disorder?
A concurrent disorder represents a unique journey where an individual faces both a substance use issue and a mental health challenge. Here are some examples of resilience:
- Overcoming schizophrenia while actively addressing an opioid addiction
- Transforming post-traumatic stress disorder while working through alcohol challenges
Individuals with concurrent disorders possess extraordinary strength, yet they may encounter additional hurdles on their path to recovery. These challenges can include:
- Managing other mood or personality disorders that may trigger anxiety, fear, or paranoia
- Facing ongoing physical health issues with courage
- Dealing with limited health or dental care due to social circumstances
- Navigating unstable living situations or unemployment with determination
- Overcoming feelings of stigma and rising above
Trauma and concurrent disorders
Many individuals facing dual challenges have the strength to overcome trauma. Trauma can be:
- Abuse
- Neglect
- Sexual assault
- Other difficult experiences, like challenging childhood situations
It hits differently for women
Research reveals a powerful connection between trauma and mental wellness, as well as substance use issues. This connection is especially profound for women, but every journey to healing is possible!
An innovative and integrated approach to mental health and addiction treatment
Digging Deeper
Understanding where a person’s mental illness or substance use comes from can be very empowering. Mental illness, addiction, and trauma are often connected, and recognizing this link is an important step toward healing. Some people may use alcohol to escape the pain of past traumas or opioids to cope with their mental health issues. By looking at these problems as a whole, rather than just focusing on substance use, healthcare providers can get to the root of the issue. Spending time with clients to understand the deeper causes of their problems can spark their recovery journey.
Coping with PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is one of the most common issues linked to substance use. Clients with unresolved PTSD may feel anxious and overly alert, which can lead them to seek relief in substances. While this can make their healing journey more difficult, it’s crucial to remember they are not alone. Acknowledging the effects of PTSD can lead to effective treatment and a better life, motivating individuals to take that brave step toward recovery.
Our approach
Treating concurrent disorders is complex. People with these disorders require more than medication and counseling for effective recovery. Our caring therapists will conduct thorough assessments and diagnoses. Everyone is unique and we recognize that treatment takes time, which is why many of our programs span several months.
Research indicates that patients achieve better outcomes with a whole-person approach. Each therapy plan addresses substance use, mental health issues, chronic health concerns, and any triggers or trauma. This plan also focuses on identifying and building on personal strengths and resilience.
Using a combination of:
- Motivational interviewing
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Emotion regulation skill building
- And where needed medication management