When an individual presents with both a substance use disorder and at least one mental health condition, he or she is said to have co-occurring disorders. This is also known as having a dual diagnosis. According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 47 million adults in the US have at least one mental health condition, and almost 19 million have a substance use disorder.

Co-occurring disorders treatment is designed to help individuals recover from both substance abuse and any underlying mental health conditions, which may often go undiagnosed. Because substance abuse and mental health issues can perpetuate one another, it is critical to treat them simultaneously for the best chance at long-term, sustainable recovery.

Fast Facts About Co-Occurring Disorders

An individual’s alcohol and drug use is often closely connected to their need to self-medicate personal pain, whether physical or psychological.

While genetics, personal history, and social factors contribute, mood-altering substances are sometimes used to cope with:

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Phobias and post-traumatic stress
  • Bipolar disorder or personality disorders
  • Schizophrenia or other serious mental illnesses

Mental Health America states that one in three individuals with depression also struggle with substance use or dependence.

According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health:

  • 6.2 million adults aged 26 and older represent the majority of those suffering from co-occurring disorders
  • Nearly 7% of adults ages 18 to 25 have co-occurring disorders
  • Over 3 million adults report a serious mental health condition alongside a substance use disorder
  • Approximately 1.4% of adolescents (roughly 345,000) experience both a major depressive episode and a substance use disorder

History of Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment

For the majority of addiction treatment history, rehabilitation options for those with a dual diagnosis were often divided among organizations only treating one condition or the other. The concept that substance abuse and mental health conditions could occur together, and even perpetuate one another, was not recognized until the late 20th century, and it is still gaining ground today.Man struggling with bipolar

It was in the late 1980s and early ’90s that the behavioral health industry began tailoring substance abuse treatment to address the needs of specific age and demographic groups, including those who had co-occurring mental health conditions. Since then, co-occurring disorders treatment has prominently emerged as an effective model for facilitating long-term recovery. Treatment professionals in this field continue to discover and develop ways to help those with a dual diagnosis find lasting healing. 

Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment at The Meadows Texas

At The Meadows Texas, we treat both substance use and mental health conditions in the same residential setting, giving patients the optimal chance for lasting recovery. Our evidence-based approach combines clinical expertise with holistic care, empowering patients to address both the root causes and symptoms of their disorders.

Our comprehensive treatment includes:

  • Individual and group therapy for emotional processing and skill building
  • Holistic practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness
  • Nutritional guidance and wellness programs
  • Education on coping strategies, relapse prevention, and life skills
  • Supportive staff, many of whom have personal recovery experience

We treat every patient with dignity, respect, and empathy, helping them regain control of their life and rebuild relationships.

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Get answers to your questions

Recovery from co-occurring disorders is possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with both mental health and substance use challenges, The Meadows Texas provides comprehensive, integrated care to support long-term healing.

Call us today to speak with a trained intake coordinator and begin the path to whole-life recovery.

Call 833-757-5697