People often think of mental health and substance use disorders as being separate issues. But in reality, they frequently go hand in hand. The term dual diagnosis (also known as co-occurring disorders) describes someone who is living with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder. If you or a loved one was recently diagnosed with dual diagnosis, you might be learning how common it is and why it’s so important to treat both disorders together. 

What Is Dual Diagnosis? 

A dual diagnosis means that an individual has both a mental health disorder (e.g., anxiety, depression, PTSD) and a substance use disorder (e.g., alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder). These conditions interact with each other in complex ways, and they can exacerbate each other’s symptoms if they don't receive the proper treatment. 

The Surprising Statistics 

According to data from SAMHSA and other leading sources, dual diagnosis is more widespread than people often realize. Knowing that you or your loved one is not the only one suffering can help you feel less alone and more connected to others. This is why group therapy, family therapy, and peer-led support groups can be so beneficial to your recovery. 

Let’s take a look at some of the latest statistics on dual diagnosis: 

• Nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. lives with a mental health disorder like major depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. 
• Among individuals with a mental health disorder, about 50% will also experience a substance use disorder at some point.
• Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders are increasing among teens, particularly females. In 2022, 31% of adolescent females reported anxiety, and 25% reported depression.
• Only 10% of people with dual diagnosis receive treatment for both of their conditions. About 42% did not receive any substance use or mental health treatment. 

Why Mental Health and Substance Use Are So Often Linked

There is no single reason why these conditions occur together, but research suggests several common links. The main reason for the strong connection is self-medication. Many people use drugs or alcohol to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or trauma. 

For instance, if you feel anxious around other people, it’s easy to reach for a drink to loosen up. However, continuing to do this can become unhealthy, causing you to build tolerance, drink more, and suffer more negative effects. Over time, your drinking can turn into an alcohol use disorder, worsening the symptoms of depression. 

There are also shared risk factors that play a role in the onset of both conditions, such as genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental stressors. For example, people who grow up in a household with substance use, or those who have a family history of mental health problems, are at an increased risk of dual diagnosis. It’s also possible that substance use can trigger mental illness by changing brain function and making mental health symptoms harder to manage. 

Why These Stats Matter 

Dual diagnosis can feel lonely and isolating, but many people experience these two conditions. The good news is that dual diagnosis treatment centers like Recovery Cove are well-versed in treating these disorders at the same time—you don’t need to address one before you address the other. Effective recovery means integrated treatment that provides a more holistic, lasting approach to address the root causes of both problems. 

Hope and Healing at Recovery Cove 

At Recovery Cove, we specialize in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Our dual diagnosis program is designed to meet people where they are at. Our customized treatment plans ensure clients receive the best care possible, and you don’t have to decide what to treat first. Contact us today at 484-549-COVE to learn more about our integrated approach.