Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders
The connection between the brain and body is incredibly intricate. Due to these complexities, it is no surprise that substance abuse and addiction significantly affect the brain. Substance abuse can trigger, exacerbate, and even mask symptoms of other mental health conditions. Since addictive substances alter the brain and its chemistry, pinpointing the root cause of an individual's difficulties can be challenging. This is where co-occurring disorders (CODs) are relevant.
A co-occurring disorder exists alongside or "co-occurs" with a diagnosis of substance use disorder (SUD) or addiction. CODs can manifest as psychological, emotional, or even physical issues. They are also known as "dual disorders" or "dual diagnoses." To effectively recover from addiction, the most successful substance abuse treatments address each client's disorders individually and their interactions.
The Connection Between CODs and Addiction
How common are CODs among individuals dealing with addiction and substance abuse? Recent research indicates that 50-70% of those undergoing treatment for substance use disorder in the past decade had at least one psychological disorder history. Conversely, among those treated for psychological conditions, 20-50% had current or past experiences with addiction or substance abuse. Therefore, it's crucial for addiction recovery centers to incorporate CODs into their treatment strategies.
There are, however, obstacles to addressing CODs in clinical environments. One study highlights these barriers:
- The rising incidence of CODs among patients and the high demand for professionals to address them
- The historical shortcomings of treatment programs in effectively addressing CODs, necessitating awareness for developing innovative programs
- Insufficient resources in treatment centers to adequately address CODs, including the financial allocation required for such initiatives
Clearly, there is a need for targeted interventions for CODs among those in addiction recovery. However, achieving these treatments is not always straightforward.
Different Types of Co-Occurring Disorders
Many CODs can be severe or distinctly noticeable, such as personality disorders, behavioral disorders, and psychotic disorders. Others are less apparent, resembling mild anxiety or depression. In the context of substance abuse and addiction, CODs are generally associated with psychological disorders.
The broad categories of CODs encompass, but are not limited to, the following:
- Mood Disorders (depression, bipolar disorder)
- Anxiety Disorders (social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, panic disorders)
- Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder)
- Eating Disorders (anorexia, bulimia)
- Personality Disorders (narcissistic, paranoid, histrionic)
- Behavioral Disorders (defiance, hyperactivity)
Identifying Signs of Co-Occurring Disorders
Similar to any complex diagnosis, the signs and symptoms of CODs vary among individuals. Factors such as socioeconomic status and the types of substances abused are just examples. Consequently, mental-emotional disorders can manifest CODs in markedly different ways.
Generally, behavioral symptoms of CODs may include:
- Isolation
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
- General aggression
- Significant and irrational mood swings
- Conflicts with authority
- Job instability
- Housing instability
- Financial instability
- Engagement in prostitution or sexual deviance
- Neglect of hygiene and cleanliness
- Difficulty concentrating
Do many of the signs of CODs resemble those of addiction and substance abuse? Indeed, there is a considerable overlap between CODs and SUDs. This overlap makes identifying the primary issue challenging, as the mental disorder may be prompting substance abuse or vice versa.
Causes of Co-Occurring Disorders
Environmental Factors:
- Chronic stress and traumatic situations (whether early in life or later) often trigger an underlying psychological health disorder. Similarly, this applies to conditions that were previously dormant. Under stress, substance use and abuse may emerge as a coping mechanism.
Brain Chemistry:
- The brain areas that regulate mood, stress, and reward systems respond similarly to both substance abuse and mental-emotional disorders. This overlap can result in a complex web of symptoms requiring appropriate care and treatment.
Traumatic Childhood Experiences:
- Exposure to drugs or alcohol at a young age increases the risk of substance abuse. Early exposure can impact the development of the brain and bodily response systems, as well as the onset of psychological disorders.
Social Stigmas:
- One of the significant challenges faced by those with mental disorders is the social stigma accompanying their diagnosis. Individuals may be seen as dangerous, fundamentally flawed, or even contagious. These misconceptions are clearly incorrect but can cause fear and shame for those with CODs. This often leads to self-isolation and resistance to seeking help.
Incarceration Injustice:
- Among incarcerated individuals convicted of illegal substance possession and use, those with CODs have a higher chance of re-incarceration within six years. Unfortunately, the criminal justice system often fails to identify such cases, perpetuating a cycle of incarceration and a lack of necessary treatment.
Homelessness:
- Individuals experiencing homelessness frequently have multiple CODs and face challenges accessing healthcare due to distrust, financial constraints, and sometimes the mental disorders themselves.
Treatment Approaches for CODs
Addiction treatment centers are excellent starting points for anyone dealing with substance abuse and CODs. Initially, a treatment center provides a dual diagnosis, addressing any underlying addiction causes. This means they treat mental and emotional disorders alongside the individual's substance abuse patterns.
Therefore, don't hesitate to seek help as soon as possible. Contact the team at Impact Recovery today to begin the healing journey necessary to transform your life.
