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June 1, 2018Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders
Co-occurring disorders are identified as an individual who experiences a mental health disorder at the same time as being addicted to drugs or alcohol.
Oftentimes, the symptoms of one disorder can heighten or worsen the symptoms of the other. Effective treatment for a co-occurring disorder can help an individual recover and live a normal lifestyle. Each situation is different, and some people will start to feel the mental health symptoms first, which can lead them to addiction as a way to cope. Our mental health program in Boca Raton specializes in treating all co-occurring disorders through individualized treatment plans. Dual diagnosis treatment will allow you to manage the symptoms of both disorders in everyday life.
Combined Symptoms of Both Diseases
Co-occurring disorders can be hard to identify because the symptoms of a mental health disorder can very closely mimic those of substance abuse. Some common symptoms of co-occurring disorders can include anxiety attacks, insomnia, extreme paranoia, and depression. An individual will also experience withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability and agitation, that can lead to repeated drug use. The need for medical care is so important because the combined effects of both diseases can be too much for one person to handle. If an individual stops taking drugs on their own, their mental health disorder symptoms can increase during this time, and the vicious cycle of addiction starts to take over.
Individualized Treatment
Co-occurring disorder treatment must address both issues as well as be customized to fit the individual’s needs. Successful treatment for this type of diagnosis includes therapy and rehab support to treat the substance abuse aspect of the diagnosis. Of course, every situation is different, and any co-occurring disorder should be treated on an individualized basis.