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. People who do have a mental health disorder, whether properly diagnosed or not, are more likely than those who don't to have some type of drug or alcohol addiction issues. This can sometimes be challenging to asses and treat, but if either are left untreated both might become more harmful for the individual, leaving them vulnerable to mental, physical and social consequences. Consequences in these unique instances can be severe, at times leading to suicide, homelessness, legal consequences, and premature death. With proper diagnosis and specialized treatment methods to address the co-occurring disorders concurrently, this can be avoided and clients in Mona with co-occurring disorders can lead perfectly happy and productive lives.
With increased understanding on the subject, study and innovation in the field of treatment for co-occurring substance abuse disorders has come a more broad range of services for these individuals. Early intervention can be key in these circumstances, and many people with co-occurring disorders may look for primary care services first before seeking behavioral health services. This offers PCP's an unique opportunity to identify 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 extensive array of services than the typical treatment client, services that are typically provided in hospital, inpatient, and residential programs which can help with the initial stabilization process to get them detoxed and off of any drugs and medications they need to quit using immediately. Doctors and therapists work with clients in these settings to address both issues simultaneously with behavioral therapy, counseling, and mental health services, and before program completion come up with a strong relapse prevention and aftercare plan to make sure these clients don't immediately relapse due to either disorder being activated.