Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Information
Information about dual diagnosis, identifying co-occurring disorders, and recovery.
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Co-Occurring Disorders Information and Support
Living with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder can feel challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Co-occurring disorders, or dual diagnosis, happen when mental health issues and substance use disorders occur at the same time. Understanding what is a co-occurring disorder can help guide you toward the right treatment and a path to lasting recovery.
Our co-occurring disorders treatment program is designed to address both challenges simultaneously, offering compassionate care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for more information or ready to take the next step, we’re here to provide support, hope, and guidance toward a brighter future.
What is a Co-Occurring Disorder?
A co-occurring disorder, also called a dual diagnosis, happens when someone struggles with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder at the same time. These challenges often feed into each other, with one making the other worse, and create a cycle that can feel overwhelming.
Effective treatment for dual diagnosis addresses both. By combining therapy, medical support, and personalized care, individuals can better understand and manage their symptoms while working toward a healthier, more stable future. With the right support, breaking free from the cycle of co-occurring disorders is possible.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Facts
In 2023, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration released their Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States, which revealed a correlation between mental health and substance use. They found:
- Of the 4.5 million Americans aged 12-17 who had a major depressive episode in 2023, nearly 20% of them had a substance use disorder
- Among the 58.7 million adults with any mental illness, about 20.4 million of them (or one-third) had a substance use disorder as well
Understanding and Identifying Co-Occurring Disorders
Co-Occurring Disorders and Mental Health
Co-Occurring Disorders and Substance Abuse
Co-Occurring Disorders Symptoms
Causes
Treatment
Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and eating disorders, often go hand-in-hand with substance abuse. Many people turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with overwhelming emotions or symptoms, but this only creates a harmful cycle. Addressing these issues together is key to breaking free and finding a path to healing.
Substance abuse and mental health challenges are deeply connected. For some, mental health struggles lead to using substances as a way to escape or numb the pain. For others, substance use triggers or worsens mental health symptoms. This complex relationship highlights the importance of integrated care that treats both issues together for lasting recovery.
The symptoms of someone struggling with a co-occurring disorder can be be wide-ranging, but often include:
- Withdrawing from loved ones or social activities
- Frequent mood swings, irritability, or anger
- Struggling to manage daily responsibilities
- Engaging in risky behaviors, like driving under the influence
- Neglecting personal health or hygiene
- Developing a high tolerance for substances or experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Feeling fear, paranoia, or anxiety without clear cause
Recognizing these signs is the first step toward finding effective help.
The causes of co-occurring disorders often stem from a combination of genetics, life experiences, and emotional struggles. Understanding these causes helps shape treatment plans that focus on healing both the mental health issues and substance use, offering a path toward lasting recovery.
A family history of addiction or mental illness, difficult experiences like trauma, chronic stress, or untreated mental health challenges can lead people to use substances as a way to cope. Substance use can worsen mental health conditions, which creates a cycle that feels hard to escape.
Treatment for co-occurring disorders focuses on addressing both substance use and mental health conditions simultaneously, providing a holistic approach to recovery. Integrated care often includes therapies like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication management, and peer support to treat the root causes of both challenges.
Our Programs to Treat Co-Occurring Disorders
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and effective approach for treating co-occurring disorders, including addiction, depression, and anxiety. By focusing on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors, CBT helps individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their overall mental health. This therapeutic method is integral to comprehensive treatment plans for those facing multiple mental health challenges.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is a fundamental component of effective treatment for co-occurring disorders. It provides a confidential space for clients to explore personal challenges, develop coping strategies, and address both mental health and substance use issues. This personalized approach fosters self-awareness and resilience, essential for lasting recovery.
Virtual IOP (VIOP)
Our Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (VIOP) provides a flexible and accessible way to receive care for co-occurring disorders. Through secure online sessions, you’ll work with experienced therapists who address both mental health and substance use challenges. This option ensures you get the support you need, no matter where you are.
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Recovering from Co-Occurring Disorders
These challenges don’t have to define your life. Facing a dual diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but with the right co-occurring disorders treatment and support, recovery is within reach. Treating both mental health struggles and substance use together is key to finding lasting relief and stability.
At our Arizona treatment center, we treat the whole person. Through approaches like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication support, we address the causes and symptoms of mental health conditions and addiction. Peer support groups and therapies like DBT offer tools to manage stress, cope with emotions, and build stronger connections.






















View Our Beautiful Scottsdale Treatment Facilities
Cornerstone has two treatment centers located in Scottsdale that offer lifesaving addiction treatment services. The environment we create for our clients promotes healing and focus while also ensuring comfort and beauty. We have group and learning rooms that provide space for collective therapy sessions and educational workshops.
We have individual therapy rooms that provide privacy and comfort for one-on-one sessions, allowing our clients to work with their therapists on resolving personal issues. Clients have access to a large fitness facility, where they will take part in weekly fitness training classes.
At Cornerstone Healing Center, we are committed to delivering a holistic approach to substance abuse treatment, blending comfort, therapy, and personal development for a full experience.
What is a co-occuring disorder and a dual-diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis, also called co-occurring disorders, means you have both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time.
What are the symptoms of co-occurring disorders?
Co-occurring disorders can present complex symptoms that combine mental health and substance use challenges. Recognizing these signs early can make a difference.
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Sudden mood changes, irritability, or anger
- Difficulty managing daily responsibilities
- Increased risky behavior, like driving under the influence
- Neglecting personal hygiene or health
- High tolerance for substances and withdrawal symptoms
- Feelings of fear or paranoia without cause
Does health insurance cover co-occurring disorder treatment?
Yes, under the Affordable Care Act, most insurance policies cover treatment for co-occurring disorders. Cornerstone Healing Center accepts many insurance providers, including:
- Aetna
- Blue Cross BlueShield
- United Healthcare
- Meritain Health
- Cigna
- GEHA
- UMR
- Health Choice
- Mercy Care
- TriCare
- TriWest
Contact us to verify your insurance and learn more about how your policy applies to treatment costs.
Will my insurance cover an online mental health program?
Now more than ever, health insurance companies are willing to provide coverage for online mental health programs. The reality is that the outcomes and benefits are substantial, and many people do not meet the criteria of an inpatient program or intensive in-person outpatient treatment program. Our virtual programs are made for those who need more structured and consistent therapeutic support than just virtual individual therapy.
What if my loved ones don’t want to go into treatment?
When someone resists treatment, it can be difficult for family and friends. Having open conversations, showing support, and researching treatment options together can help. Consulting a professional can also provide guidance. Remember, caring for yourself is important too. Support can be a bridge to recovery.
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