Dual Diagnosis Rehab in Ohio - Forward Health Ohio

Millions of people in the United States suffer from mental health disorders like anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Unfortunately, mental health conditions put people at risk for developing a substance use disorder. Mental health disorders with combined addiction are called co-occurring disorders.

While co-occurring disorders are harder to treat because there are two conditions involved, they are treatable. We are successful in helping people manage their symptoms and lead productive, fulfilling lives.

To learn more about treating a co-occurring condition, contact Forward Health in Ohio today.

What is a Co-Occurring Disorder?

When someone has a mental health condition and does not receive adequate care, they are at risk for turning to drugs or alcohol to alleviate their symptoms. Someone who has anxiety may drink alcohol in social situations, while someone with post-traumatic stress disorder may smoke marijuana to numb their emotional pain.

Drugs and alcohol do nothing to treat the symptoms of mental illness. In fact, they exacerbate these symptoms and put people at risk for more severe mental illness, suicidal thoughts and overdose. This is a dangerous cycle that can only be stopped with professional intervention and support services.

Treating a co-occurring disorder requires more intense, one-on-one treatment than if you were to have a substance use or mental health disorder alone. But healing is possible when you obtain the right treatment, make the appropriate lifestyle changes and receive continuing support that includes therapy and 12-step meetings.

Who is Most at Risk for Developing a Co-Occurring Condition?

Of the nearly 8 million people who have a co-occurring condition, more than half are men. This isn’t a surprise, as men are statistically more likely than women to abuse illicit drugs and alcohol. However, women are more likely to self-medicate with illicit substances and transition from substance abuse to substance dependence than men.

Additional risk factors for developing a co-occurring condition are:

Family history of substance use or addiction
Family or personal history of mental illness
Prenatal exposure to certain drugs or toxins
Low self-esteem or poor self-image

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Co-Occurring Disorder?

There are many combinations of co-occurring disorders so symptoms may vary based on what the person is dealing with. As an example, bipolar disorder exhibits different symptoms from generalized anxiety disorder. However, the emotional symptoms of addiction are usually similar.

Here are some of the most common symptoms that a co-occurring disorder is present:

Sudden changes in behavior
Using substances in dangerous conditions
Social isolation
Risky behavior
Developing a tolerance
Withdrawal symptoms
Cravings and urges to use the drug

Best Treatments for Co-Occurring Conditions

Forward Health in Ohio offers integrated treatment plans for individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders. We offer partial hospitalization making it possible to start your journey with us.

However, some clients require a medically supervised detox program before starting intensive outpatient or traditional outpatient care. We can also recommend supportive housing for those who need a safe and supportive way to transition and avoid relapse.

During your time in outpatient treatment, you may participate in the following:

Group and individual counseling sessions
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (CBT)
Contingency management
Motivational enhancement
Mutual support groups

Start Your Journey to Healing at Forward Health in Ohio

A co-occurring disorder is not a death sentence. You can get better with the right intervention and an integrated treatment plan. Forward Health is capable of dealing with all types of co-occurring conditions. Contact us today to take the first step forward – a new, healthy and drug-free life awaits!