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Reporting on Mental Health & Addiction
-Co-Occurring Disorders-
| Addiction is defined as a ‘maladaptive pattern’ of substance use that results in significant impairment or distress; when addiction turns into substance abuse, this impairment becomes clinically significant. When seeking treatment it is extremely important that the root cause of the addiction is understood. By considering the reasons behind the behavior, practitioners are able to provide treatment in an integrated manner that addresses both substance use and any present mental health conditions. Individuals experiencing both mental health and substance use challenges are considered dually diagnosed or experiencing “co-occurring disorders,” meaning that the two conditions occur simultaneously.
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Persons diagnosed with drug abuse disorders are twice as likely to suffer from mood and anxiety disorders.
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Key Terms:
Dually diagnosed: clinically diagnosed with two conditions related to substance abuse and mental health.
Comorbidities: Two conditions likely to present together. For instance, high blood pressure and diabetes are common comorbidities.
Co-occurring disorders: Often used interchangeably with “dually diagnosed,” however, co-occurring disorders may exist even if they have not been diagnosed. Each condition can be established independent of the other.
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Suggestions for Reporting
Co-Occurring Disorders
Exploring the possibility of co-occurring disorders in your reporting presents the opportunity to further understand your subject and the reasons behind their behavior. It can also shed light on the effectiveness of available resources in treating the whole person. Consider these suggestions when covering the underlying issues that may be present behind addiction and the challenges that one may face to overcome it:
- Researchers suggest that sustained drug or alcohol abuse may allow a victim to “separate psychologically from the environment” and blur or anesthetize painful memories or feelings. Think about how substance abuse may be present due to repercussions of sexual abuse or other trauma experienced throughout one’s life.
- Trauma is often at the root of co-occurring disorders. Consider that an individual who experiences a traumatic event may be attempting to self-medicate with alcohol or other drugs.
- Remember to explore the importance of treatment that is integrated and addresses not only the substance abuse but also any underlying mental health challenges.
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