Co-occurring Disorders are defined by The Substance Abuse and Mental Health ServicesAdministration as the coexistence of both a mental health and a substance use disorder that is commonly referred to as co-occurring disorders. The SAMHSA’s blog is an amazing resource if you have questions about substance abuse or mental health. Many people do not think of Sober Livings in NYC as an option for people with co-occurring disorders. We at City Recovery specialize in helping people with these issues and have found Sober Living environments to be extremely helpful to not only the patient but also to the family.
Co-occurring disorders were previously referred to as dual diagnoses. According to SAMHSA’s2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 7.9 million adults in the
People with mental health disorders are more likely than people without mental health disorders to experience an alcohol or substance use disorder. Co-occurring disorders can be difficult to diagnose due to the complexity of symptoms, as both may vary in severity. In many cases, people receive treatment for one disorder while the other disorder remains untreated.
This may occur because both mental and substance use disorders can have biological, psychological, and social components. Other reasons may be inadequate provider training or screening, an overlap of symptoms, or that other health issues need to be addressed first. In any case, the consequences of undiagnosed, untreated, or undertreated co-occurring disorders can lead to a higher likelihood of experiencing homelessness, incarceration, medical illnesses, suicide, or even early death.
co-occurring disorders are best served through integrated treatment. With integrated treatment, practitioners can address mental and substance use disorders at the same time, often lowering costs and creating better outcomes. Increasing awareness and building capacity in service systems are important in helping identify and treat co-occurring disorders. Early detection and treatment can improve treatment outcomes and the quality of life for those who need these services.
We at City Recovery have worked for over 10 years with clients dealing with everything from trauma, PTSD, Bi-Polar I and Bi-Polar II, Schizo effective disorders in addition to alcoholism, drug use, IV drug use, crack cocaine, cocaine, opioids, pain-killers, benzodiazepines, and many more issues. Having a safe environment that involves regular drug testing and counseling or Intensive Outpatient Program is key to achieving and maintaining sobriety. If you or a loved one is in need of mental health or substance abuse help, please reach out sooner than later to get help. What studies have shown is that the sooner a diagnosis is achieved, the better the chances that you or a loved one will be on the road to recovery and living your best life.
You can learn even more about treatment for co-occurring mental and substance use disorders at many different places online and by visiting our resources blog. You can also call us if you have questions or need help in NYC or the New York City area.
Call us, we’re here for you! CITYRECOVERY 646.668.0352