Co-Occurring Disorders: Treatment Statistics, Facts, and Prevalence

Understanding the Scope of Dual Diagnosis and the Importance of Integrated Care

When mental health disorders and substance use disorders occur together, it’s known as a co-occurring disorder—or dual diagnosis. And it’s more common than most people realize. Many individuals living with addiction are also battling anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges at the same time.

At Amazonite Treatment Center, we specialize in treating both conditions together—because that’s how lasting recovery truly begins. This article explores key statistics, facts, and why integrated treatment is essential for healing.

What Are Co-Occurring Disorders?

Co-occurring disorders involve at least one mental health disorder and one substance use disorder happening simultaneously. This complex interplay can make diagnosis and treatment more challenging—but also more critical.

Common combinations include:

  • Depression and alcohol use disorder

  • Anxiety and benzodiazepine dependence

  • PTSD and opioid addiction

  • Bipolar disorder and stimulant use

  • Schizophrenia and cannabis use

Both conditions must be addressed at the same time for treatment to be effective. Ignoring one often causes the other to resurface or worsen.

Key Statistics on Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorders are not the exception—they are extremely prevalent, yet often underdiagnosed or mismanaged.

According to data from SAMHSA and NIMH:

  • 9.2 million U.S. adults experienced both mental illness and substance use disorder in 2021

  • Among people with substance use disorders, nearly 38% also have a mental health disorder

  • Only 13% of people with co-occurring disorders receive treatment for both conditions

  • Individuals with dual diagnosis are more likely to experience hospitalization, homelessness, and incarceration if left untreated

  • Co-occurring disorders are more common among young adults (ages 18–25), individuals identifying as LGBTQ+, and those with trauma histories

These numbers reflect an urgent need for integrated, compassionate, and accessible care—not fragmented treatment.

Why Co-Occurring Disorders Are Often Overlooked

therapist speaking with client about addiction and mental health together

One of the reasons co-occurring disorders are so prevalent yet undertreated is because they often mask each other. Mental health symptoms may be attributed to drug use—or vice versa. And many individuals use substances to self-medicate undiagnosed mental health conditions.

Without proper assessment:

  • Addiction treatment may miss underlying causes

  • Mental health therapy may ignore relapse triggers

  • Symptoms may return after treatment ends

That’s why Amazonite Treatment Center offers comprehensive dual diagnosis evaluation from the very start, ensuring no part of the recovery journey is overlooked.

The Importance of Integrated Treatment

clients participating in holistic group therapy for co-occurring disorder treatment

Treating both conditions at once improves outcomes significantly. At Amazonite, our dual diagnosis approach includes:

  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) where appropriate

  • Psychiatric care and ongoing evaluation

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-informed approaches

  • Holistic wellness services like mindfulness, nutrition, and fitness

  • Relapse prevention that addresses emotional and behavioral triggers

When clients receive support for their mind, body, and addiction in one cohesive program, they’re more likely to heal, grow, and sustain recovery long-term.

Dual Diagnosis Deserves Dedicated Care

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use and mental health symptoms, you’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. Co-occurring disorders are common, complex, and treatable with the right support.

At Amazonite Treatment Center, we don’t just treat one side of the story—we treat the whole person.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about our integrated dual diagnosis treatment.