The relationship between substance abuse and mental health is often overlooked. Each year, millions of Americans from all walks of life seek treatment for substance abuse, but many of them are also living with an underlying mental health condition. Members of the LGBTQ+ community are especially at risk for these issues, which is why Pride Institute offers co-occurring rehab programs especially designed to meet your specific needs. 
Learning more about co-occurring disorders, how they are treated, and what sort of help is available can be empowering for those seeking co-occurring disorders treatment in Minneapolis and the surrounding areas. To learn more about Pride Institute’s LGBTQ+ recovery programs, call 952.934.7554 today.
What Are Co-Occurring Disorders?
For many, the term ‘co-occurring disorders’ is an unfamiliar one. Co-occurring disorders refer to the state of having a substance use disorder as well as another mental health condition. This is actually very common, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, affecting nearly 40% of people living with substance use disorders. People who seek treatment for substance abuse or addiction should be screened for mental health conditions because, in order to treat one condition, the other must also be properly addressed. Some of the mental health conditions frequently found in clients who are also living with a substance use disorder are:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Bipolar Disorder
- Personality Disorders
While in treatment for addiction, you can get help for any mental health disorders that influence your inability to stop using drugs or alcohol as well.
LGBTQ+ Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment: How is it Different?
In some ways, LGBTQ+-specific treatment is the same as other, more general treatment programs for co-occurring disorders. However, even though more programs than ever are welcoming to people of all identities and orientations, treatment programs designed to meet the needs of the LGBTQ+ community allow participants to relax and focus on their recovery while being their authentic selves. The LGBTQ+ community deals with life circumstances that are unique and may also have an impact on mental health and the risk of substance abuse. Research done by the National Alliance on Mental Illness suggests that members of the LGBTQ+ community may be between two and four times more likely to experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.
Levels of Care in Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment
The concept of ‘rehab’ has been frequently portrayed in the media, but there are actually many types of programs and levels of care for clients pursuing their recovery. In order to know what is best for you or your loved one, it is important to seek the advice of a licensed mental health professional or substance abuse counselor. Some of the levels of care available are:
- Residential Programs – In this level of care, clients receive intensive treatment while staying full-time at the treatment center. Clients participate in individual therapy, group therapy, and other activities that promote and support recovery. They may also receive medical or psychiatric care when appropriate.
- Intensive Outpatient/Partial Hospitalization Programs – These programs are similar to residential programs, but clients do not stay at the treatment center full-time. Some may return to their own homes, while others may stay in sober living houses. These programs can often be a transitional level of care for those who have completed a residential program.
- Outpatient/Community Care – Those who have completed more intensive levels of care and are prepared to transition to supportive care often participate in counseling, group therapy, meetings, and other therapeutic activities that can help them maintain their recovery.
Treating addiction and mental health simultaneously leads to higher success rates regarding relapse prevention, recovery, and long-term sobriety.
Pride Institute: Serving the Recovery Care Needs of the LGBTQ+ Community Since 1986
At our treatment centers in Minneapolis and Eden Prairie, Minnesota, each client works closely with our staff to develop an individualized plan for recovery care. We provide programs that are specifically designed to meet the needs of the LGBTQ+ community, and are committed to honoring our clients’ identities, families, and experiences. If you or a loved one has been struggling with substance abuse while living with a mental health condition, reach out to our caring and compassionate staff today at 952.934.7554 or by filling out our online form.
