During a time when mental health concerns, as well as substance use disorders, are on the rise, it’s essential to look out for both yourself and your friends. Co-occurring disorders refer to mental health issues occurring alongside substance use disorders. Knowing the signs of co-occurring disorders will help keep you and your loved ones diligent.
If you observe signs of co-occurring disorders in a friend, Northpoint Seattle offers comprehensive co-occurring disorder treatment in a safe and trusting environment. Contact us today at 888.483.6031 to find out what you can do next.
Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders in a Friend
If somebody is suffering from an addiction or another mental health issue, they might be going through an isolating and challenging time. However, they may also be experiencing a combination of the two. It is incredibly common for somebody who is struggling with addiction to be suffering from a mental health concern, or vice versa.
Co-occurring disorders in a friend might be diagnosed if they are suffering from a mental health issue at the same time as a substance addiction. Mental health concerns such as mood and personality disorders are more commonly seen in combination with an addiction. Young adults have even higher rates of co-occurring disorders. It’s also common for co-occurring disorders to not show up simultaneously. In some cases, new co-occurring disorders can be diagnosed and found during treatment.
Dual Diagnosis
The signs of co-occurring disorders in a friend are very similar to the signs of a dual diagnosis. A dual diagnosis is very similar to a co-occurring disorder, and the two can often be confused. Both terms reference diagnosing two or more health conditions that occur simultaneously. They are most often used for the combination of a mental health issue and substance use disorder.
But what is the difference? A dual diagnosis refers to any combination of physical and mental health conditions that occur at the same time. The main difference between the two terms is that a dual diagnosis refers to two health conditions that are diagnosed at the same time. Co-occurring disorders refer to two health issues diagnosed separately, meaning that somebody could be diagnosed with a mental health concern and substance use disorder that are entirely unrelated, though they may affect each other.
Co-occurring disorders refer to a diagnosis where one health condition results from another. For example, somebody suffering from a mental health issue might turn to substances to self-medicate. Or vice-versa, somebody suffering from a substance use disorder might later be diagnosed with a mental health concern as a result of their substance abuse.
The two health conditions must be treated simultaneously for both dual diagnoses and co-occurring disorders.
Signs of Co-Occurring Disorders in a Friend
Knowing the signs of co-occurring disorders is essential to catch them early. The signs of co-occurring disorders in a friend might look different depending on the individual, the substances they’re using, the mental health condition they are suffering from, as well as other factors. Some signs of co-occurring disorders include:
- Avoiding social situations once enjoyed
- Cognitive impairments
- Neglecting health or hygiene
- Erratic or impulsive behaviors
- Difficulty managing responsibilities such as finances or schoolwork
- Suicidal behavior or thoughts
If your friend is exhibiting any of these signs, it’s essential to keep an eye on them and find out if they may be abusing substances or suffering from a mental health concern.
Call Today to Start Healing with Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment at Northpoint Seattle
If you’re starting to notice signs of co-occurring disorders in a friend, the best thing you can do is encourage them to seek treatment. At Northpoint Seattle, we offer co-occurring disorder treatment for anybody suffering. Contact us online or by calling 888.483.6031 to discuss your options.