Co-Occurring and Dual Diagnosis

What is a Co-Occurring and Dual Diagnosis?

When a substance abuse problem exists alongside a mental health issue—such as depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety—this is called a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring condition. Without addressing this mental health issue, recovery can seem impossible. 

When mental health issues are left untreated, substance abuse can arise or worsen. In contrast, when substance abuse increases, it can exacerbate existing mental health conditions.

Surprisingly, 50% of individuals with mental health issues also have co-occurring substance abuse. This means that it’s imperative to address underlying mental health conditions. If left untreated, the risk of relapse increases—making it difficult to achieve lasting recovery.

However, with the right support, recovery is possible. At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), we understand the importance of addressing all contributing factors when it comes to addiction. We leave no stone unturned, ensuring you get the best possible shot at recovery and a brighter and healthier future.

At the same time, it’s worth noting that mental health conditions can arise due to substance abuse, or substance abuse may arise due to an untreated mental health condition. This is known as comorbidity—when one condition causes another. Either way, it’s important to address these conditions to prevent substance misuse and overcome it.

Common mental health conditions that may occur alongside substance abuse include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

With the FRC team, we work with you to pave the best path forward. Your treatment may involve the diagnoses of mental health conditions that exacerbate your addiction or have resulted from it. Each treatment plan is unique to each individual and their specific needs. Your program may include dual diagnosis, our 12-step facilitation therapies, mindfulness, group therapy, motivational interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more.

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Benefits of Co-Occurring and Dual Diagnosis for Addiction Recovery

For making a full recovery, integrated care is essential, including addressing both substance use and mental health conditions. Co-occurring and dual diagnosis can benefit your journey in multiple ways, including:

Comprehensive & Holistic Care

Simultaneous treatment of addiction and mental health conditions addresses the root cause of your discomfort. It tackles your substance use from all angles, improving outcomes and preventing relapse. 

Reduced Risk of Relapse

Without addressing other mental health disorders, substance abuse treatment may not be effective or successful. Even after completing a rehab program, existing mental health conditions can lead to continued substance use. By treating both, your chances of success significantly increase.

Improved Mental & Emotional Well-Being

Mental health conditions can lead to emotional instability and triggers for substance use. With a dual diagnosis, you learn to identify your triggers and address them with healthy coping strategies. This leads to greater resilience and sustained recovery.

Improved Coping Skills

Stress, anxiety, and sadness are emotions we all experience from time to time. Yet, when unmanaged, these emotions can lead to mental health disorders. Learning to manage negative emotions in a healthy way can pave your way toward a healthy and vibrant life—free from addiction.

Why Choose Freedom Recovery Centers

Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC) is here to help guide you toward your best life, free from the chains of addiction. We are dedicated to helping everyone and anyone overcome substance abuse and associated challenges. Our compassionate and expert team can ensure you get the care you deserve, which may include the diagnosis of co-occurring conditions.

Our treatment center in Richmond, Virginia goes above and beyond. We offer comfortable beds, good food, a nail studio, a gym, a massage clinic, basketball courts, and more—providing an environment where recovery feels enriching and meaningful. 

We don’t believe in merely following a one-size-fits-all approach. Each individual receives a unique treatment plan suited to their individual needs and situation. From the moment you step foot through our doors, we’re with you every step of the way. It’s never too late to get the help and care you need—and deserve.

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Find Out How Receiving a Co-Occurring and Dual Diagnosis Can Help You Overcome Addiction

Whether it’s your first team getting help or your last, receiving a proper diagnosis can improve your chances of success. It’s entirely possible to break the cycle of addiction. At FRC, we’re here for you. Call us to get started or simply to learn more about our process.

FAQs

What is the difference between a co-occurring disorder and a dual diagnosis?

A dual diagnosis specifically involves two disorders that occur together, such as substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. Co-occurring disorders, on the other hand, can include two or more disorders, such as mental health conditions, medical conditions, and substance use disorders.

What is a co-occurring disorder?

A co-occurring disorder refers to two disorders occurring at the same time.

What is an example of a dual diagnosis?

Examples of a dual diagnosis include:

• Depression and alcohol abuse
• Substance abuse and anxiety
• Substance abuse and PTSD

How can getting a dual diagnosis improve treatment outcomes?

A dual diagnosis gives way to a more comprehensive approach. In turn, this can help prevent relapse later on, as well as help with symptom management and improve recovery outcomes. In many cases, failing to address an underlying mental health disorder alongside substance abuse often leads to a lack of engagement in the recovery process and relapse.