Addiction can sometimes occur along with a mental health condition. When this happens, it’s known as a co-occurring disorder. Common mental health issues linked with alcohol addiction include anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Managing these conditions alongside addiction can be complex as both issues exacerbate each other.
At the Impact Wellness Network, our network of addiction treatment centers in the Midwest provides a comprehensive approach designed to address both mental health and addiction simultaneously, giving individuals the tools they need to recover.
The Challenges of Managing Co-occurring Disorders in Alcohol Treatment
The intricate connection between alcohol use and mental health symptoms poses the biggest challenge in treating co-occurring disorders. Alcohol can worsen mental health issues, while untreated mental health conditions can drive a person to drink more as a form of self-medication. This creates a vicious cycle that makes it harder to treat either issue in isolation. Treating one without addressing the other increases the risk of relapse, as the underlying cause of the addiction may remain unresolved.
Another challenge is that the symptoms of mental health conditions can often be masked by alcohol use. However, as the alcohol is removed from the system during detoxification, the intensity of mental health symptoms may rise, requiring careful management. Without proper support, this can be overwhelming for those in recovery, leading to a greater risk of relapse.
Overcoming Through Integrated Treatment Approaches
Despite the challenges, it’s possible to manage a co-occurring disorder in alcohol treatment with a fully integrated treatment approach that tackles both alcohol addiction and mental health disorders simultaneously. This includes:
Comprehensive assessments
Before treatment at our Midwest drug and alcohol rehab facilities, we take individuals through an assessment to identify any underlying mental health conditions. This allows for a personalized treatment plan that includes mental health care alongside alcohol treatment.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
For many individuals with co-occurring disorders, medication can be essential in managing mental health symptoms, especially during inpatient treatment and recovery. When combined with therapies for addiction, MAT can help stabilize mood disorders, anxiety, or PTSD, making it easier for a person to focus on their sobriety.
Therapeutic interventions
At Impact Wellness Network, we incorporate various therapeutic approaches in treating those with co-occurring disorders, this includes Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, and family therapy. These therapies help individuals understand how their mental health issues fuel their alcohol use and vice versa.
Holistic support
In addition to traditional therapies, we also incorporate holistic methods such as mindfulness, exercise, and nutrition into alcohol treatment programs. These practices help address the overall well-being of individuals, reducing stress, boosting mood, and helping to prevent relapse.
Rebuild Your Life with Our Comprehensive Treatment
Managing a co-occurring disorder in alcohol treatment may be difficult but with integrated care and ongoing support, recovery is within reach. At the Impact Wellness Network, we believe in simultaneously addressing mental health and addiction to provide a comprehensive path to healing. If you or a loved one is struggling with a co-occurring disorder, get in touch with us to learn more about how we can help you regain control of your life.