Addiction is often combined with other co-occurring disorders that impact one’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. For example, many individuals suffering from addiction also exhibit signs of depression. Clients and professionals may not differentiate the symptoms of depression and addiction. Often, a treatment plan for only one disorder is implemented, which may result in incomplete treatment and subsequent relapse. Co-occurring disorders have a wide range of prevalence and severity. Any mental disorder and addictive behavior has its own course of action that will require an effective treatment plan.

Clients struggling with co-occurring disorders may also use substances to “self medicate” in the face of symptoms of a mental disorder to blunt the emotional pain that they experience.

For this Discussion, review the week’s resources and consider possible co-occurring disorders. How might co-occurring disorders present challenges for individuals seeking treatment for addiction? Finally, consider possible strategies to help individuals overcome these challenges.

By Day 3
Post an example of two possible co-occurring disorders. Explain how those co-occurring disorders may present challenges to treatment for people with problems with addiction. Finally, explain two strategies that an addiction professional may utilize to address those challenges. Support your response using the resources and the current literature.