Mental health is a complex issue, and it is not uncommon for individuals to have more than one diagnosis. When mental health issues overlap, they are known as co-occurring disorders (CODs). CODs can be challenging to diagnose and treat effectively, but treatment is possible and can be beneficial. Let’s look at the benefits of COD treatment.

What Is Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment?

Co-occurring disorder treatment is an integrated approach to treating mental health and substance use disorders simultaneously. This form of treatment recognizes that there is an interrelationship between these two types of disorders and involves treating them together to provide effective care.

This type of treatment aims to identify and address the underlying causes and symptoms associated with each disorder to promote better outcomes for individuals diagnosed with co-occurring disorders.

How Does it Work?

The first step in the treatment process is an assessment by a qualified mental health professional or addiction specialist. During this assessment, the patient’s history and current condition are evaluated to determine a comprehensive plan for treatment. Once this plan has been established, a combination of therapies may be used to treat both conditions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), medication management, group therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, and other evidence-based treatments.

It is important for individuals receiving co-occurring disorder treatment to receive consistent follow-up care through individual or group sessions so that any changes or challenges can be addressed immediately. Additionally, ongoing involvement from family members or support systems can play an important role in promoting positive outcomes for those diagnosed with co-occurrence disorders. 

Better Understanding of Symptoms

Co-occurring disorder treatment allows individuals to explore their symptoms in greater detail than they might otherwise. Treatment may include both individual therapy sessions and group counseling.

Working with a mental health professional allows individuals to gain insight into the relationship between their diagnoses and how those diagnoses affect their lives. For example, someone diagnosed with depression and anxiety may learn how their anxiety affects their ability to manage their depression or vice versa.

Increased Self-Awareness

In addition to learning more about the relationship between their diagnoses, individuals also gain increased self-awareness through COD treatment. This means recognizing both triggers and warning signs that can signal when symptoms may worsen or become unmanageable. Through self-awareness, individuals can better understand themselves and have access to a greater range of coping strategies when dealing with difficult situations or episodes of distress. With improved awareness comes better control over one’s own life and experiences.

Reduction in Symptoms

Finally, research has shown that appropriate COD treatment can help reduce symptoms associated with both diagnoses and improve functioning in day-to-day activities.

Professionals typically use evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or other psychotherapies depending on the client’s needs.

Studies have shown that these therapies are effective in treating CODs, which often have overlapping causes or pathways in terms of underlying biology or environmental factors that lead to the development of multiple mental health disorders at once.

Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

Co-occurring disorder treatment can benefit those who suffer from overlapping mental health issues. By increasing understanding of symptoms, promoting self-awareness, and reducing symptom severity through evidence-based therapies such as CBT or DBT, individuals can work towards recovery from CODs and lead healthier lives overall.

If you think you may benefit from treatment for your co-occurring disorders, your first step should be speaking with a mental health professional about your options for care. They will be able to assess your symptoms and recommend the best course of action for you.

Published: 2023-01-13 22:49:00