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There are approximately 8 million people in the United States who struggle with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, also known as a dual diagnosis. Individuals who do have a mental health disorder, regardless of whether it has been properly diagnosed or not, are more likely than those who don't to have some type of substance abuse disorder. This can be difficult to asses and treat, but if either are left untreated both can be very damaging for the individual, leaving them exposed to mental, physical and social consequences. Consequences in these unique instances can be very serious, at times leading to homelessness, suicide, legal consequences and premature death. With the correct diagnosis and specific treatment to address the co-occurring disorders concurrently, this can be prevented and people in Bern with co-occurring disorders can lead perfectly happy and productive lives.
With increased understanding on the subject, study and innovation in the field of co-occurring disorders has come a more broad spectrum of services for these individuals. Early intervention can be key in these circumstances, and many people with co-occurring disorders may look for primary care services first before seeking behavioral health services. This offers primary care physicians a special opportunity to diagnose people with co-occurring disorders through screening and then referral to the correct treatment services.
People with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders require a more broad spectrum of services than the typical treatment client, services that are commonly provided in inpatient and residential rehab programs which can assist with the initial stabilization process to get them detoxed and off of any drugs and medications they need to stop taking immediately. Doctors and therapists work with patients in these settings to handle both issues simultaneously with counseling, behavioral therapy, and mental health services, and before program completion develop a sturdy relapse prevention and aftercare plan to make sure these clients don't immediately relapse due to either disorder being stimulated.
