Co-Occurring Disorders

Learning more about co-occurring disorders, a lesser-known mental health phenomenon.

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It is well known that mental disorders can alter your ability to function, but a lesser-known adverse effect is the tendency for other mental disorders to develop easily. A mental disorder is especially likely to contribute to a substance use disorder (SUD). When both a mental disorder and an SUD occur at the same time, it is called co-occurring disorders, or a dual diagnosis.

Why are SUDs common in people who have an existing mental health condition? There are many answers to this question. They have similar genetic and environmental risk factors, and self-medication is common in people who have a mental disorder. Because certain people are at risk for one type of disorder, and they have the same risk factors, they are also at risk for the other. A dual diagnosis can happen in either order. The SUD may be diagnosed first, or the mental disorder may be diagnosed earlier.

Examples of common treatments include cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies, which aim to change harmful behaviors and adopt new ones. Additionally, medication can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of either disorder. Other treatments, such as in-patient care and support groups aim to provide long-term care for those who have been diagnosed. In short, many treatments exist for dual diagnosis.

It is important to educate people about co-occurring disorders, as it is a lesser-known phenomenon. Education and acceptance are the best ways to raise awareness about any phenomenon and can lead to the development of accommodations for those struggling. In summary, being understanding is the best way to learn about others.