Many people with mental health disorders also often struggle with other conditions. People who struggle with both of these types of disorders are often diagnosed as having what is called “co-occurring disorders.” These disorders are prevalent, as addiction and mental health both have similar symptoms that can feed into each other if left untreated for extended periods.
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health and addiction disorders, it is crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible. If these conditions are left unaddressed, they will only continue to escalate and result in more severe symptoms. Contact our team of dual diagnosis treatment experts today at Peachtree Recovery for more information on co-occurring disorders treatment in Georgia.
What Are Co-Occurring Disorders?
Co-occurring disorders are identified in people suffering from mental health conditions and addiction. They can be diagnosed separately, but often they are considered disorders that intersect with each other. The symptoms of co-occurring disorders can make them difficult to treat, as symptoms can often interplay with each other and cause each side of the disorder to worsen.
Co-occurring disorders develop due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Many people with co-occurring disorders develop the second disorder due to the first. For example, someone who develops a dangerous addiction habit is prone to developing mental health issues due to the disconnection to the realities that addiction can cause. Co-occurring disorders are unique because they require a personalized mental health and addiction treatment plan that considers the symptoms of the disorders the patient endures.
Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders
Co-occurring disorders and dual diagnosis disorders are mental health conditions that occur simultaneously in the same person. These conditions include substance abuse, anxiety, eating, and mood disorders. Symptoms of co-occurring disorders can vary depending on the individual need, but common symptoms may include:
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
- Inability to experience pleasure from activities formerly enjoyed
- Racing thoughts or inability to focus
- Excessive worry or anxiety
- Social isolation or withdrawal
- Reckless behavior
- Poor hygiene or appearance
Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment in Georgia
When it comes to treating co-occurring disorders, most addiction treatment programs will take a holistic approach. This means that they will not just treat the addiction but also address the underlying issues that led to the development of the co-occurring disorders. Co-occurring disorders treatment in Georgia is also known as dual diagnosis treatment. This name comes from the developed treatment plans addressing the underlying symptoms of each disorder the patient suffers from. Depending on the unique findings of the assessment, this can include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and more.
Therapy is a vital part of treatment for co-occurring disorders. A therapist will help individuals understand their addiction triggers and the underlying issues that caused the co-occurring disorder. The therapist will also teach valuable coping skills and strategies to deal with future relapse triggers. Medications can help treat co-occurring disorders, and several different drugs can be used and tailored to the individual’s needs. Lifestyle changes can also be significant in treating co-occurring disorders in Georgia. This may include things like exercise, diet, and stress management techniques.
Engage in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment at Peachtree Recovery
Understanding co-occurring disorders and treatments can be beneficial to a person’s overall well-being. Co-occurring disorders are a severe problem affecting people from all walks of life. When left untreated, co-occurring disorders can lead to job loss and financial ruin and can cause each disorder to worsen continually over time. However, with the right treatment program in place, co-occurring disorders are manageable, and people can go on to live healthy and productive lives.
If you or someone you love is struggling with co-occurring disorders, please don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Peachtree Recovery for help. There is no shame in seeking assistance. It takes courage and strength to face these challenges head-on. With the right support system in place, recovery is possible. For more information, reach out to our team of mental health and addiction treatment experts today at (678) 325-7250.