Treating Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders in Alcohol Addiction Recovery

What Are Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, refer to the presence of both a substance use disorder, such as alcohol addiction, and a mental health disorder, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. These disorders often occur together, and addressing both issues is important for successful treatment and lasting recovery.

Why Occurring Disorders are So Common in Alcohol Addiction

Co-occurring mental health disorders are common in alcohol addiction because the two are closely linked. Many individuals who struggle with addiction use alcohol as a way to self-medicate and manage their mental health symptoms. However, in the long run, alcohol only exacerbates these symptoms and can lead to a dangerous cycle of addiction and mental health issues.

Addressing both substance use and mental health concerns is important for successful treatment and lasting recovery. This is why rehabilitation centers like Hollywood Hills Recovery offer comprehensive care that addresses both addiction and mental health issues. By addressing the underlying mental health issues that contribute to addiction, individuals can achieve a successful and lasting recovery.

The Most Common Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders With Alcohol Addiction

Depression

One of the most common mental health issues that co-occurs with alcohol addiction is depression. Alcohol is a depressant, which means that it can exacerbate symptoms of depression and increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Addressing depression through therapy, medication, or a combination of both can be an important part of alcohol addiction recovery.

Anxiety

Anxiety is another mental health issue that can co-occur with alcohol addiction. Those who struggle with anxiety may turn to alcohol as a way to self-medicate and manage their symptoms. However, in the long run, alcohol only exacerbates anxiety symptoms and can lead to a dangerous cycle of addiction and mental health issues. Addressing anxiety through therapy, medication, or other techniques, such as mindfulness or exercise, can be an important part of recovery.

Trauma

Finally, trauma is another mental health issue that is closely linked to addiction. Many people who struggle with addiction have experienced trauma in their past, and the pain and anxiety associated with that trauma can fuel substance abuse. Addressing trauma through therapy, support groups, and other techniques can help individuals process their experiences and learn healthy coping mechanisms that do not involve substance abuse.

Depression, anxiety, and trauma are just a few of the mental health issues that can co-occur with addiction, and addressing these issues through therapy, medication, and other techniques can help individuals achieve lasting recovery and lead a fulfilling life.

Treating Mental Health Disorders Related to Alcohol Addiction

Hollywood Hills Recovery (HHR) is a rehabilitation center that specializes in treating individuals who struggle with addiction to alcohol and other substances. One of the key components of our treatment program is addressing mental health concerns that often co-occur with addiction.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to addiction treatment of any kind. At Hollywood Hills we offer therapy sessions with licensed professionals that help clients understand their depression and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Additionally, we provide medically-assisted treatment for individuals who may need it.

We offer different types of therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), that can help individuals manage their anxiety and develop healthy coping skills. We also offer mindfulness and meditation classes, which have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms.

When addressing trauma, we provide trauma-informed care and offer various therapy options, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.

We understand that every individual is unique and has different needs when it comes to mental health treatment. That's why we offer personalized treatment plans that are tailored to each client's specific needs and goals. We also provide ongoing support and aftercare to ensure that clients continue to receive the care they need even after they have completed their program.

Addressing mental health concerns is a critical aspect of alcohol addiction recovery, and Hollywood Hills Recovery is committed to providing comprehensive care that addresses both addiction and mental health issues. Our individualized treatment plans and licensed professionals ensure that clients receive the care they need to achieve lasting recovery and lead fulfilling lives.

Remember That Change Doesn’t Happen Over Night

It is important to remember that recovery from alcohol addiction is a journey, and addressing mental health concerns is an important step in that journey. With the right treatment and support, individuals who struggle with addiction can achieve lasting recovery and lead fulfilling lives.

This is a process. One that can be slow and painful, but we promise it is worth it. We’ve all walked in your shoes and have done this work ourselves which is why we are here to support you on your path to recovery and offer realistic expectations and advice along the way.

Contact Hollywood Hills Recovery

If you or someone you know is struggling with co-occurring disorders, it is important to seek treatment from professionals who are experienced in addressing both substance use and mental health concerns. With the right treatment and support, individuals can achieve lasting recovery and lead fulfilling lives. Our team of licensed professionals is here to support you on your journey to recovery and provide the care and resources you need to achieve lasting wellness.

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