Mental Health &
Co-Occurring Disorders
Mental health conditions are common and treatable. When substance use and mental health happen together, it’s called co-occurring (or dual diagnosis). Treating both at the same time can improve safety and long-term stability.
Our website is for information only. We help you understand your options and prepare for conversations with licensed providers, but we do not diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes.
How This Page Helps
Learn signs and next steps for common mental health conditions
See how integrated care works with addiction treatment
Find clear guides for each condition (ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more)
Get simple checklists for appointments, insurance, and aftercare
What Is Co-Occurring (Dual Diagnosis) Care?
Co-occurring care treats substance use and mental health together with one team, one plan. Your clinician looks at symptoms, safety, home support, and goals, then recommends a starting level of care (detox/
Mental Health Conditions We Cover
ADHD
Trouble with attention, organization, or impulsivity. ADHD Care may include skills coaching, therapy, school/work supports, and, when appropriate, medication.
Anxiety
Persistent worry, panic, or physical tension that disrupts daily life. Anxiety treatment may include CBT, DBT skills, exposure strategies, and personalized medication.
Bipolar Disorder
Mood shifts between depression and elevated/irritable energy. Bipolar disorder programs include mood-stabilizing medications, therapy, and safety regimens.
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Intense emotions, relationship swings, and fear of abandonment. Care for BPD often features DBT skills, trauma-informed therapy, and clear safety plans.
Depression
Low mood, loss of interest, sleep/appetite changes, fatigue, and restless thoughts. Depression treatment may include CBT, behavioral activation, and medication.
Eating Disorders
Concerns with food, body image, or weight that affect health and function. Treating eating disorders involves medical monitoring, nutrition, therapy, and family involvement.
Mood Disorders
Includes persistent depressive disorder, cyclothymia, and others. Programs for mood disorders blend therapy, routines, and, when necessary, medication.
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)
Intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals. Care for OCD may include ERP-focused CBT and individualized medication routines.
Personality Disorders
Patterns in thinking or relating that cause distress or problems at work/home. Treatment for personality disorders emphasizes skills training, therapy, and steady routines.
Psychotic Disorders
Experiences like hallucinations or delusions. Care focuses on safety, medical evaluation, coordinated therapy, and medication for psychotic disorders.
PTSD & Trauma-Related Issues
Nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance, and hyper-alertness after trauma. PTSD care may include trauma-informed therapy, grounding skills, and approved medications.
Signs You Might Need Support
- Daily life is getting harder (school/work, relationships, sleep)
- You use alcohol/drugs to cope with anxiety, low mood, or trauma memories
- Strong cravings or withdrawal when you cut down
- Panic attacks, severe mood swings, or thoughts of self-harm
Only a clinician can assess your situation. If safety is urgent, use emergency services now.
Levels of Care
Detox (if needed):
Short-term medical support for risky withdrawal
Inpatient/Residential:
24/7 care when risks are higher or home isn’t stable
PHP (Day Program):
Intensive, structured care with full-day schedules
IOP:
Strong support most days or several evenings a week
Outpatient:
Less frequent therapy sessions to promote ongoing recovery
Telehealth:
Flexible therapy with online meetings from the comfort of your home
How Integrated Treatment Works Day to Day
- Therapy: CBT, DBT skills, trauma-informed care, family sessions (with consent)
- Medications (when appropriate): For mental health and, if needed, substance use
- Skills Practice: Sleep, stress, cravings, and relapse-prevention tools
- Aftercare: Appointments, support groups, alumni check-ins, and a simple safety plan
Preparing for Your First Appointment
Use this checklist to help you get ready for your first session:
Note your top 3 concerns and goals (sleep, mood, cravings, school/work)
List medications/supplements and any allergies
Make a rough timeline of symptoms and substance use (it’s okay if not exact)
Get your Insurance card (if you have one) and questions about costs
Ask a trusted support person (optional) to come with you, if you’d like
Insurance & Costs
Coverage depends on your plan, network, and medical needs. Programs can check benefits, but your insurer makes the final decision. Ask about self-pay or payment plans if needed.
FAQs
Do I have to be sober to get mental health care?
No. Integrated programs treat both substance use and mental health concerns together. A clinician will recommend a safe starting point.
Will I have to take medication?
Medication is offered only when clinically appropriate and with informed consent. You decide with your prescriber.
Can I work or attend school during treatment?
Many people use IOP or outpatient treatment or telehealth for flexibility. Ask about schedules that fit your life.
How long does treatment last?
It varies. Plans adjust as needs change. Aftercare helps keep progress steady.
What if I tried treatment before and it didn’t “stick”?
Integrated care, skills practice, and the right level of support can make a difference. Ask about step-up options and aftercare.
Helpful Resources
In Crisis? Get Immediate Help
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. You can also contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7 at 988.
Additional Resources:
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741