It is not uncommon for a person suffering from a substance use disorder to also have mental health issues. In fact, researchers have identified a strong link between substance use disorders and mental health disorders conditions referred to as “co-occurring disorders.” The symptoms of each may overlap, making it difficult for individuals to know exactly what is going on with them and what exactly the problems are. Additionally, some people may be more likely than others to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol as they try to alleviate the symptoms of their mental illness. Those who suffer from anxiety, depression, and PTSD are more susceptible to addiction, in part because many turn to substances to mask their symptoms and control their negative thoughts.
At New Bridge Foundation®, we believe in treating more than a person’s substance use disorder by striving to identify the underlying mental health issues that may contribute to the addiction. We believe that long-term recovery hinges on treating the whole person. With over five decades of experience in treating co-occurring disorders, our healthcare experts provide clients with treatment options to ensure the best possible outcome. If you live in the Oakland Area or anywhere in the state of California, learn more about how we treat co-occurring disorders by calling 866.772.8491.
Mental Health Therapy for Co-Occurring Disorders
Mental health issues and addiction frequently occur together and both can have an extensive and negative impact on a person’s life. Many individuals turn to self-medication as a means of coping with their mental health problems. In some cases, due to the overlap of symptoms and behaviors, it may be difficult to identify or distinguish between a substance use disorder and a mental health issue. Experts agree that an integrated treatment program is necessary to successfully treat both the mental health issues and the substance use disorder and that treating both simultaneously is optimal.
No matter the co-occurring disorders, intensive medical and therapeutic treatment is essential to manage the symptoms caused by the mental health issue. Treatment is designed to help individuals in their quest to stop using drugs or alcohol while assisting them in managing the urges and cravings to drink or use drugs. A treatment plan developed by a collaborative team of experts at New Bridge Foundation® may include:
- Individual counseling
- Individualized mental health treatment plan
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Co-occurring disorder education and group therapy
- Consultation with outside providers
- Medication management
- Free aftercare for life
Our co-occurring treatment services are provided by our team of psychiatrists, nurses, licensed mental health professionals, and certified addiction counselors. Our goal is to ensure that each client receives the care and counseling necessary to get them on the road to lifelong sobriety and overall mental health. Find out the best treatment option for your co-occurring disorder by calling 866.772.8491 or through our online form.
What Is the Connection Between Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction?
In 2018, 9.2 million adults (eighteen and over) were diagnosed as having a co-occurring disorder. Among the most common disorders were depression and anxiety.
People who suffer from depression battle more than occasional sadness. They may experience feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, a lack of energy, and even thoughts of self-harm. In turn, they may use drugs or alcohol to treat these symptoms, finding temporary relief while self-medicating. Unfortunately, as use and addiction set in, over time, the depression worsens.
On the other hand, a person who abuses substances may develop depression. For example, alcohol is a depressant and tends to lower serotonin levels, reducing feelings of happiness and joy, and encouraging a person to focus on negative thoughts. Depression ensues.
People who suffer from anxiety are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol as a means of coping with their symptoms of nervousness, agitation, sleeplessness, and fear. Unfortunately, while their intentions are to alleviate their uncomfortable feelings and intrusive thoughts, substances enhance the effects of anxiety rather than relieve them. Frequently, when individuals do not find relief as expected, they increase their substance intake in order to try to achieve the desired effect. This cycle leads to abuse and addiction.
To help achieve ongoing recovery and sobriety, it is important that individuals be treated for depression, anxiety (and other mental health disorders), and addiction simultaneously. Treating one without the other will not be nearly as helpful or beneficial, which could ultimately lead to relapse.
Discover How to Treat Co-Occurring Disorders in the Oakland Area
Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, New Bridge Foundation® and its team of experienced counselors offer a broad range of evidence-based programs and services to help individuals reach their goals of happiness and lifelong health and sobriety. Some of our comprehensive treatment programs and specializations include:
- Detox program
- Short-term and/or long-term residential rehab
- Short-term outpatient rehab
- Telehealth services/virtual Day Treatment and IOP
- LGBTQ+ affirming treatment
- Specialized services for active-duty military and veterans
- Evidence-based practices including Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Family education and support
At our client-centered treatment facility, we focus on treating the whole person to ensure success and reduce the risk of relapse. Discover how you or a loved one can start down the road to recovery from co-occurring disorders by calling 866.772.8491 today.
