According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), approximately 10.3 million people aged 12 or older misused opioids in 2018 — 3.7 percent of the population. An estimated 9.2 million adults aged 18 or older suffered from both a mental illness and at least one substance use disorder in the past year, or what’s referred to as a co-occuring disorder.
In this brief article, we discuss who is at risk for developing a co-occurring disorder, the symptoms of co-occurring disorders, and how co-occurring disorders can be treated. If you or a loved one is struggling with a co-occuring disorder, request an appointment for heroin addiction treatment in Tampa.
Related: 5 Reasons to Seek Substance Abuse Treatment in Tampa
Who Is at Risk for Co-Occurring Disorders?
Addiction and co-occurring disorders can affect anyone regardless of their age, gender, or race. However, there are certain risk factors associated with co-occurring disorders, including:
- Environmental influences, such as exposure to trauma
- Certain brain characteristics that make the individual more vulnerable to addictive substances
- A family history of mental illness, substance use, or both
- Lack of appropriate treatment for mental illness
- Lack of appropriate treatment for substance use
Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders
The symptoms of co-occurring disorders can be difficult to recognize, as symptoms of substance use can mask symptoms of mental illness and vice versa. However, co-occurring disorders most often result in a worsening of mental health symptoms even when treatment is provided because those with mental illnesses use these substances to feel better. This can prevent the individual from treating their mental illness and from developing healthy relationships and coping skills.
In addition to the combined symptoms of their mental illness and addiction, the individual experiences symptoms such as impaired social function, poor physical health, and increased risk of suicide. Warning signs for when it’s time to seek immediate help include sudden changes to behavior, such as extreme mood swings, problems concentrating, avoiding social interactions, or contemplating suicide.
Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders
For the purposes of treating co-occurring disorders, the integrated treatment model has been found to produce the best possible patient outcomes, as it addresses the symptoms and complexities of both disorders. Integrated treatment may include a number of methods, such as residential treatment, psychotherapy, supportive housing, and support groups. Regardless of the method of treatment used to treat substance abuse, the most important thing is to connect with a treatment provider dedicated to creating a unique integrated approach that best suits your needs.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, speak with a treatment specialist about heroin abuse treatment in Tampa. To schedule a consultation with Phoenix House Florida, please request an appointment today.
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