A combined treatment approach helps manage symptoms effectively and reduces the risk of recurring symptoms. People living with anxiety disorders experience persistent worries, overthinking, fear, and imagining worst-case scenarios. Research supported by NIH suggests that anxiety disorders and addiction have high comorbidity. About 15% of adults with an anxiety disorder in the U.S. also have a substance use disorder within the Alcohol Use Disorder same year. Similarly, roughly 14–20% of people with a substance use disorder have a co-occurring anxiety disorder.
Aftercare Planning
Contributors to co-occurring disorders include brain chemistry, trauma, stress, and early exposure to drug use. An Intensive Outpatient Program provides multiple therapy sessions each week, psychiatric oversight, and a structured path toward stabilization—without requiring residential treatment. Addiction often stems from unprocessed trauma, emotional dysregulation, or chronic stress. Many dual diagnosis people in recovery have difficulty naming or processing these emotions. Art bypasses verbal filters and allows for direct access to the emotional brain.
Risk factors for co-occurring disorders
We work with individuals to help identify where treatment will be most beneficial. Neurofeedback therapy and art therapy both aim to support brain regulation and emotional stability, making them https://mylegalexpert.com/cannabis-use-disorder-3/ effective complements in holistic addiction recovery. When a disturbing life event causes significant emotional pain and distress, even after the actual event has passed, it is known as trauma. People who live with unhealed trauma have emotional wounds that have left a lasting scar. The scars still feel real, and lingering emotional pain continues unless treated. Unhealed trauma shows up as anxiety, fear, emotional numbness, and flashbacks.
- These complementary services help you rebuild a sense of balance and purpose.
- Techniques like mindfulness, assertive communication and healthy routines build resilience.
- Over time, her anxiety grew worse, and she drank more just to feel normal.
- Mental health disorders may contribute to substance use disorders.
- Many people suffer in silence because they think recovery will be a long journey.
- These influences include early exposure to drugs or alcohol, high-stress levels, lack of social support, and socioeconomic factors such as poverty.
How common is having some form of co-occurring disorder?
Techniques like mindfulness, assertive communication and healthy routines build resilience. Regular follow-up appointments keep you accountable and allow for early intervention if warning signs emerge. Contact us to learn more about treatment for co-occurring disorders or to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
