Co-occurring disorders, meaning the simultaneous diagnosis of both a substance use disorder and mental health disorder, are common. Statistics on co-occurring disorders give important information on prevalence, demographics, and other details which may help with addiction and mental health treatment, as well as solutions for problems that can be a consequence of dual diagnoses.
Statistics on co-occurring disorders—also known as dual diagnoses and comorbidity— can present a clearer picture of the relationship between substance use disorders and mental health disorders.
It is important to treat both disorders concurrently for the best chance of a successful recovery.
Co-occurring disorders are prevalent. The 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found that approximately 9.5 million American adults (3.8 percent) had a mental illness (AMI) as well as a substance use disorder within the past year. It also found a co-occurrence of serious mental illness (SMI) and a substance use disorder within 3.6 million (1.4 percent) of American adults.
It is likely that someone who has either a substance use disorder or a mental health disorder will have the other as well. Reports show that 29 percent of those considered mentally ill and about 50 percent of those who have a severe mental disorder also experience substance abuse. On the flip side, 53 percent of people who abuse drugs and 37 percent of people who abuse alcohol have one or more serious mental illness.
Some studies of co-occurring disorders have broken down the rates by demographics, showing that certain groups had higher rates of a coexistence between addiction and a mental illness:
Statistics also give information on the available treatment for co-occurring disorders and show how many people need and receive treatment. Of the facilities that participated in the 2019 National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services (N-SSATS), 53 percent reported that they provide treatment tailored to co-occurring disorders. However, not all of those with co-occurring disorders are receiving treatment for either or both of the disorders.
It’s important to address both aspects of a co-occurring disorder to achieve effective treatment, as neglecting one can stand as a roadblock to full recovery. Also, comprehensive treatment is necessary because of the seriousness of co-occurring disorders, with consequences that include an increased likelihood of relapse, suicide risk, rehospitalization and other negative outcomes. World-class drug addiction treatment centers that treat both addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders concurrently offer the best hope for recovery.
Statistics help provide information on co-occurring disorders and their treatment that can be used to help people with co-occurring disorders and improve availability of, access to and effectiveness of treatment.
“
Alta Mira provides a safe, warm environment and a world-class professional team, so you can live the life you want to live.
”
