Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope
If you or a loved one has been suffering with co-occurring disorders, finding the right treatment will be a crucial component of healing and recovery.
Having the professional assistance of a treatment team may be one of the most effective ways of finding healing and recovery from co-occurring disorders, such as mental illness and substance abuse.
Treating a Complex Disorder
Because of the many complexities that are involved with these two overlapping disorders, there are many facets that will need to be addressed in the recovery process. This may include medical stabilization, nutritional rehabilitation, medication management, psychotherapy, support groups and more.
Specialized Treatments
When searching for a treatment center that can best meet your needs, it is important to consider both disorders that you may be struggling with. Many treatment centers offer recovery treatment for both substance abuse and mental illness, and some centers may specialize in the treatment of a particular mental illness.
For example, if you are struggling with both substance abuse and an eating disorder, you may consider searching for a treatment center that can address both of these complex issues. If you are dealing with a personality or mood disorder alongside addiction, consider searching for a treatment center than can address the specific condition you are struggling with.
Prioritizing Treatment
In some instances, one disorder may be more prominent than the other. In this case, it may be necessary to prioritize treatment for that particular disorder.
For example, if you find yourself struggling with addiction or having severe medical complications that are resulting from addiction, it may be necessary to seek professional treatment to intervene with these behaviors first.
In some situations, it is necessary to go through a detoxification phase from an addicting substance in order to effectively deal with any underlying co-occurring disorders.
Getting Effective Treatment
Seeking out professional treatment for co-occurring disorders is one of the most effective methods for treating mental illness and substance abuse. Finding a center that specializes in addiction and mental illness recovery can be one of the most helpful methods for treatment.
Co-occurring disorders are complex and challenging, but you do not have to face this road alone. Take the step today to seek out the help you need for recovery.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
Are you in recovery from co-occurring disorders? What aspect of treatment was helpful to you?
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on May 15th, 2015
Published on AddictionHope.com