Do you need to talk to someone about a drug,
alcohol or mental health problem?
Many people struggle with both a substance use and a mental disorder – this combination
is called co-occurring disorders. For people who suffer from co-occurring disorders, receiving treatment for both the addiction and the mental health disorder is important in order for them to get better. Treatment works. Recovery starts with understanding the problem.
The questions below can help you decide whether you or someone you love needs help with substance use, a mental health issue, or both.
- Over the past 2 weeks, have you felt down, depressed, or hopeless?
- Over the past 2 weeks, have you felt little interest or pleasure in doing things?
- In the past year, have you had significant problems with insomnia, bad dreams, or falling asleep during the day?
- In the past year, have you thought about ending your life or had thoughts about suicide? If you have had thoughts of not wanting to live, or harming yourself or anyone else, talk to someone immediately or call the suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. In the past year, did you have a hard time paying attention at school, work, or home?
- Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking or drug use (use less alcohol or drugs)?
- Have people annoyed (irritated, angered, etc.) you by criticizing your drinking or drug use?
- Have you ever felt bad or guilty about drinking or drug use?
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Have you ever taken a drink or a drug first thing in the morning (an eye-opener) to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover?
In the past, have you ever:
- (for men) had 5 or more drinks in a day?
- (for women or anyone over age 65) had 4 or more drinks in a day?
- used recreational or prescription drugs to get high?
Unless you answered "never" to all of the above questions, talk to your doctor, a nurse, or a counselor about possible concerns. They can help you decide what to do next. They may also help you find more information and resources.
Resources
Hazelden specializes in the treatment of co-occurring disorders. Learn more or call us with your questions at 800-257-7810.
Our website, Behavioral Health Evolution, provides information about the most common co-occurring disorders.
For more information on treatment for co-occurring mental and substance use disorders, go to http://www.coce.samhsa.gov/ or http://www.samhsa.gov/treatment/.
