During mental health treatment in Colorado and Illinois, our licensed and certified professionals dedicate their time to helping clients overcome mental health disorders and improve their overall well-being.
There are many reasons why people fall victim to drug and alcohol addiction, but it’s very common for those reasons to involve mental health disorders.
Elevare Behavioral Health offers individualized treatment plans for primary co-occurring disorders. We use the latest research-based methods in our approach. Our goal is to stabilize your mental health and then prepare you for a life of sobriety. Our Colorado and Illinois mental health facilities have licensed and experienced clinicians capable of helping anyone improve their life.
GET HELP FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
The healing process can pose many challenges—all of which can be difficult to cope with on your own.
Our team of licensed mental health professionals has the knowledge and experience to help you manage your symptoms and create a new, more fulfilling life.
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We accept most major insurance provider plans.
If you have coverage of any kind, we will work with you to determine your benefits for mental health treatment. Any information you share with us is kept strictly confidential.
What Is Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders or comorbidity, refers to the simultaneous presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in an individual. Dual diagnosis recognizes the complex interplay between mental health and substance misuse, as these conditions can often coexist and interact with one another, impacting a person’s well-being.
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorder (BD)
- Personality disorders
- Conduct disorders
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Benzodiazepines
- Stimulants
Dual diagnosis is difficult to identify and treat. Mental health issues can lead someone to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. Substance use, in turn, can intensify issues of mental health. The cycle is difficult to escape from. Getting help from a certified mental health treatment facility like Elevare Behavioral Health is an option for those who are ready to move on to a brighter future.
What Are the Risk Factors for Co-Occurring Disorders?
Several risk factors can contribute to the development of primary co-occurring disorders. These risk factors can vary depending on the specific combination of disorders. Some common factors may increase the likelihood of experiencing co-occurring conditions. Awareness of these factors can help identify individuals at higher risk and allow for early intervention and support.
- Genetics
- Family history
- Social environment
- Medical conditions
- Traumatic experiences
- Chronic stress
Depending on the individual, these risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing co-occurring disorders and complicate recovery. It is important to recognize these risk factors in order to establish an effective treatment plan that targets both conditions simultaneously to achieve long-term success.
Elevare Behavioral Health offers treatment for primary co-occurring disorders to help those in need. We specialize in helping individuals identify and manage their risk factors while providing comprehensive support throughout recovery. Our team of compassionate professionals will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both mental health and substance use disorder needs. With our assistance, you can begin your journey to a healthier mind and body.
Genetics
Genetic makeup may contribute to co-occurring disorders. Certain genetic factors can contribute to a person’s vulnerability to developing mental health and substance use disorders.
Family History
A family history of co-occurring conditions can increase your risk. Likewise, environmental factors within the family system, such as exposure to substance abuse or unhealthy coping mechanisms, may contribute to your risk of mental illness and substance abuse.
Social Environment
Social factors, such as peer influence, social isolation, or living in environments with high substance abuse rates, can increase the risk of both mental health disorders and addiction.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions, such as chronic pain, chronic illness, or neurological disorders, can increase the risk of developing mental health disorders and addiction.
Gender
Women tend to have a higher prevalence of depression and other depressive disorders compared to men. This is due to a combination of biological, hormonal, and societal factors.
Traumatic Experiences
Traumatic events, such as physical or sexual abuse, accidents, or witnessing violence, can increase the risk of both mental health disorders and substance use disorders. Trauma can lead to the development of conditions like PTSD and may cause individuals to self-medicate or cope through substance use.
Childhood Trauma
Adverse experiences during childhood, such as early loss, neglect, abuse, or unstable family environments, can disrupt healthy development. For this reason, childhood trauma also increases the likelihood of mental health disorders and addiction later in life.
Chronic Stress
Prolonged exposure to chronic stress, such as ongoing financial difficulties, relationship problems, or work-related stress, can contribute to the development of primary co-occurring disorders.
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How Are Co-Occurring Disorders Diagnosed?
Diagnosing co-occurring disorders involves a comprehensive assessment process to identify someone’s mental health problems. Only licensed mental health professionals using the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) can diagnose co-occurring disorders. The diagnostic process may involve several steps, as your therapist will examine all the factors in your life that could contribute to mental health disorders or substance use issues.
Initial Consultation
During your first consultation with a mental health professional, you may participate in self-report questionnaires and psychiatric interviews. As you answer a series of questions about your circumstances, the mental health professional will evaluate your mood and behaviors.
Thorough Assessments
Through a thorough biopsychosocial-spiritual assessment, our clinical staff will establish a clear picture of your mental health symptoms, substance use patterns, medical history, family history, and social context. This holistic approach may include clinical interviews, standardized assessment tools, and collateral information from family or other loved ones.
Treatment Planning
After identifying any co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, our psychiatric team will compile the best treatment options from our wide range of mental health services to suit your needs, goals, and preferences. As a result, this treatment plan will address all aspects of your mental health including biological, psychological, social, and spiritual components.
How Are Primary Co-Occurring Disorders Treated?
The presence of both a mental health and substance use disorder can complicate treatment. For most, the process involves a combination of therapies used to address both issues at the same time.
Successful treatment for primary co-occurring disorders requires a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach among the mental health professionals on our team. Elevare Behavioral Health offers treatment tailored to address each person’s specific needs and circumstances.
The most common treatment methods for co-occurring disorders include:
We also provide a range of supportive services to help you reach your potential and lead a happier, healthier lifestyle. Some of our mental health services include educational workshops on mental health and skills-based groups focusing on mindfulness, acceptance, distress tolerance, effective communication, emotional regulation, time management, processing grief and loss, setting goals, and solving problems.
At Elevare Behavioral Health, we believe in a holistic, individualized approach that focuses on treating your mind, body, and spirit. Our team of highly professional and compassionate counselors will offer the support and guidance you need to live a more meaningful life.
Psychotherapy
Also called talk therapy, psychotherapy is a key component in treating mental illness and addiction. There are different types of psychotherapy and you may find certain methods work better than others.
The most common psychotherapies for co-occurring disorders include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
These psychotherapies address the underlying factors contributing to both mental health and substance use disorders. They can help individuals develop coping skills, enhance motivation for change, improve emotional regulation, and promote healthier behaviors.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a research-based therapeutic approach for co-occurring disorders. CBT focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns, beliefs, and behaviors that contribute to both mental health disorders and substance use disorders. CBT helps build coping skills to manage distressing emotions, cravings, and urges to use substances. Clients learn healthier ways to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and other triggers without resorting to substance use. This may involve relaxation techniques, problem-solving strategies, assertiveness training, and emotion regulation skills.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is another research-based therapeutic approach that can be effective for individuals with co-occurring disorders. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT is now used to treat other co-occurring disorders. DBT focuses on helping individuals develop skills to regulate their emotions. This is relevant for co-occurring disorders, as individuals often experience intense emotions that contribute to both mental health symptoms and substance use. DBT teaches individuals strategies for identifying and managing emotions in healthy ways, reducing reliance on substance use to keep emotions stable.
Medication for Co-Occurring Disorders
Medication is often an important component of the treatment for co-occurring disorders. Only a licensed healthcare professional, such as the clinicians at Elevare Behavioral Health, should prescribe and administer medication.
There are several different medications used in the treatment of co-occurring disorders. Your therapist may try different options to find the one which offers the most effective treatment.
Some of the most common medications used to treat primary co-occurring disorders include:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Mood Stabilizers
- Antipsychotics
- Addiction medications
Antidepressants
Antidepressant medications are often prescribed to address symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, and other mood disorders that may co-occur with substance use disorders. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are examples of antidepressants used in the treatment of co-occurring disorders.
Mood Stabilizers
Mood stabilizers are used to manage bipolar disorder, which can co-occur with substance use disorders. These medications help stabilize mood swings and reduce manic or depressive episodes. Examples of mood stabilizers include lithium, valproate, and lamotrigine.
Antipsychotics
Antipsychotic medications help individuals with co-occurring disorders that involve psychosis, such as schizophrenia. They help reduce hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic symptoms.
Anti-Anxiety Medications
Anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines or buspirone help individuals with co-occurring disorders who experience severe anxiety symptoms. Benzodiazepines carry a high risk for dependence and misuse and are not intended for long-term usage.
Addiction Treatment Medications
Medications are also available for specific addictions to aid in recovery and reduce cravings or withdrawal symptoms. Medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone help in the treatment of opioid use disorders. Disulfiram, acamprosate, or naltrexone are also used for alcohol use disorders. Your clinical team will determine if medications are the right course of treatment for your needs.
Comprehensive Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders
At our mental health facilities in Colorado and Illinois, we offer mental health services for primary co-occurring disorders. Whether you’re looking for counseling, medication, or a combination of the two, our treatment team can provide the support and services you need to lead a healthy life in recovery. We offer personalized and comprehensive care that takes into account your specific needs. During treatment, you can gain the skills and resources necessary to manage your symptoms so that you can lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
Our professional team is here to give you all of the information you need to help you make an informed decision for your best health. Give us a call, anytime.
