Since 1949, May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States. This effort aims to educate the public about the wide-reaching impacts of mental illness and reduce its stigma. Throughout the month, organizations work together to advocate for policies that support people suffering from mental illness and their families. This initiative also provides an opportunity to highlight the common rate of co-occurring disorders, which is the diagnosis when individuals suffer from both addiction and a mental health issue at the same time.
Many people are unaware of the connection between addiction and mental health. The experienced team at Spokane Falls Recovery Center is highly knowledgeable about this connection. Screening for underlying mental health issues is a critical portion of our addiction intake process. Reach out to find out about how you can receive the benefits of mental health treatment by calling 844.962.2775.
Signs and Symptoms of Co-occurring Disorders
Co-occurring disorders can be difficult to diagnose. Often, symptoms of mental illness are confused with symptoms of addiction. At the same time, symptoms of addiction can mask mental illness. Many who suffer from a mental health issue self-medicate with alcohol and drugs to ease their emotional pain. These individuals may not address their substance use because they don’t identify it as being related to their problems. Studies show that nearly half of people with a mental health disorder also experience substance abuse or addiction.
There are numerous combinations of co-occurring disorders, and the signs and symptoms will vary depending upon which substances are being used and what the mental health diagnosis is. For example, someone with depression who abuses alcohol will have many different symptoms than someone with bipolar disorder who abuses cocaine. That said, there are some common indicators of co-occurring disorders, such as:
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Demonstrating high-risk behaviors
- Difficulty with work, school, or other responsibilities
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Financial and/or legal issues
In the past, mental health and substance use disorders were usually treated separately, often leading to unsuccessful treatment outcomes for both. We now understand that because of the intertwined relationship of mental illness and substance use, to achieve successful and lasting treatment outcomes, the two must be addressed simultaneously. To learn more about the co-occurring capable services provided at Spokane Falls Recovery Center, call us today at 844.962.2775.
Spokane Falls Recovery Center Offers Co-Occurring Capable Services
Mental Health Awareness Month plays an important role in educating the general public about the relationship between mental illness and substance use disorder. Mental illness that goes untreated can cause severe symptoms. Individuals suffering from untreated mental illnesses often turn to drugs or alcohol to get a sense of quick relief. Over time, this substance use only worsens mental health and often results in addiction as well.
The first step in an integrated treatment plan is usually medically assisted detox. Individuals need to be completely free of illicit substances so that mental health symptoms can be appropriately screened. Participation in a rehab program is crucial to the successful treatment of co-occurring disorders. At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, patients can receive holistic, individualized care customized to their unique needs. We offer treatment program options on various levels, including our:
- Outpatient program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Residential treatment
- Detox services
Within each program, patients have access to multiple therapies, including:
- Individual and group therapy
- Family therapy
- Trauma therapy – Seeking safety
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Meditation and mindfulness training
- Stress management
Mental health and substance use disorders are life-long diseases that require integrated care. With proper treatment, individuals with co-occurring disorders can manage their symptoms to lead fulfilling, productive lives.
Take Back Control of Your Life at Spokane Falls Recovery Center
Spokane Falls Recovery Center provides evidence-based treatment for substance use and provides co-occurring capable therapy to begin to address mental health symptoms. Our experienced team members work together to provide comprehensive, individualized care to promote lasting recovery. If you are ready to take back control of your life, reach out to us today. Use our online form or call 844.962.2775 to begin your journey of recovery.
