Co-Occurring Disorders

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Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnoses, occur when an individual experiences both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder (SUD) at the same time. These conditions often interact in ways that intensify symptoms, making daily life, relationships, and overall well-being harder to manage without support.

According to SAMHSA, about 20.4 million American adults (7.9%) were reported to have both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in the past year. Among those with serious mental illness (SMI), nearly 47.3% also live with a substance use disorder. These numbers highlight the importance of integrated, compassionate care for individuals facing the unique challenges of co-occurring disorders.

Signs and Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders

Recognizing co-occurring disorders can be difficult, since symptoms of mental health conditions and substance use disorders often overlap or mask one another. Common signs may include:

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
  • Worsening mental health symptoms when using substances
  • Frequent relapse after attempts to quit or cut back on substances
  • Difficulty managing daily responsibilities at work, home, or school
  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy levels
  • Social withdrawal or strained relationships with family and friends
  • Heightened feelings of hopelessness, fear, or irritability

If you or a loved one is experiencing several of these symptoms, seeking professional help is an important step. With the right care, recovery and stability are possible.

Why Treatment Matters

Co-occurring disorders present more complex challenges than treating mental health or substance use issues alone. Left untreated, they can increase the risk of relapse, hospitalization, or worsening health outcomes. With the right treatment, however, individuals can find stability, build healthier coping strategies, and regain control over their lives.

Early, integrated intervention helps reduce risks, supports long-term recovery, and allows clients to restore meaningful connections with family, work, and community.

Our Approach to Treating Co-Occurring Disorders

At Emerald Wellness, we recognize that effective treatment must address both conditions together, not in isolation. Our approach combines evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), with holistic practices including art, music, yoga, and mindfulness.

We use a trauma-informed, person-centered philosophy to ensure each treatment plan reflects the unique needs, strengths, and goals of every client. By integrating clinical care with supportive therapies, we help individuals build resilience, develop relapse-prevention strategies, and create a foundation for lasting recovery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your Questions Answered

A SUD is a medical condition that occurs when the repeated use of alcohol or drugs leads to significant impairment in daily life. This may include health problems, difficulties at work or school, or challenges in relationships. SUDs can range from mild to severe, and effective treatment can help individuals regain stability and control.
The most common mental health conditions that co-occur with substance use include depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD and C-PTSD, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. These conditions often interact with substance use, making symptoms more severe. That’s why integrated treatment is so important.
Among adults 18 and older, the most common substance use disorders include alcohol use disorder, cannabis use disorder, opioid use disorder, and stimulant use disorders. These often co-occur with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD, making integrated treatment essential.
The length of treatment varies from person to person. Some clients benefit from several weeks of structured programming, while others may need longer-term support. Our team works with each individual to determine a timeline that best supports lasting recovery.
When only one condition is addressed, symptoms from the other often resurface or worsen. That’s why integrated treatment, focusing on both mental health and substance use at the same time, offers the most effective path to long-term stability.

Take the Next Step Toward Recovery

Living with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Emerald Wellness, we provide integrated, compassionate care designed to support your whole journey. Our team is here to help you find balance, healing, and lasting wellness.

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Our dedication lies not just in treating symptoms but in addressing the root causes, offering a holistic approach that integrates the best of therapeutic practices with the warmth of community support.