There are approximately 8 million people in the United States who suffer with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, also known as a dual diagnosis. Individuals who do have a mental health disorder, whether properly diagnosed or not, are more likely to have some type of substance abuse disorder. This can sometimes be hard to evaluate and treat, but if either one of them are left untreated both can become more damaging for the person, leaving them open to mental, physical and social consequences. Consequences in these unique cases can be very serious, sometimes leading to homelessness, suicide, legal consequences and premature death. With the correct diagnosis and specific treatment to handle the co-occurring disorders at the same time, this can be avoided and people in Swan with co-occurring disorders can lead perfectly happy and productive lives.
With increased understanding on the subject, research and innovation in the field of treatment for co-occurring substance abuse disorders has come a more wide range of services for these individuals. Early intervention can be vital in these situations, and many individuals with co-occurring disorders may look for primary care services first before looking for behavioral health services. This offers PCP's an unique chance to diagnose people with co-occurring disorders through screening and then referral to the correct treatment services.
People with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders need a more broad spectrum of services than the typical treatment client, services that are normally provided in hospital and residential programs which can provide services for the initial stabilization process to get them detoxed and off of any medications and drugs they need to stop using immediately. Doctors and therapists work with clients in these settings to treat both disorders simultaneously with counseling, behavioral therapy, and mental health services, and before discharge devise a sturdy aftercare plan to make sure these clients don't immediately relapse due to either disorder being activated.