Medically Supervised Detox for Substance Use and Co-occurring Disorders

A substance use disorder rarely exists alone. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that about half of all people with a mental health disorder will also experience an alcohol or substance abuse disorder in their lifetime. 

For many individuals struggling with addiction, the disorder it isn’t just about substances. It’s also about trying to lessen the impact of untreated trauma, depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions. When co-occurring disorders are treated together, recovery becomes not only possible, but sustainable. 

What are Co-Occurring Disorders?

The term “co-occurring disorder” describes a condition where an individual experiences two or more illnesses or conditions at the same time.

A survey conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in 2024 found that approximately 21.2 million adults had a co-occurring disorder in the United States. Among the most common mental health disorders were anxiety and mood disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorders, conduct disorders and ADHD.

The question of whether the mental health disorder leads to addiction or the addiction leads to the development of the substance use disorder is still without an answer. Individuals who experience a co-occurring disorder often find themselves in a loop of worsening mental health symptoms and increased substance use. 

What we do know is that when the two occur at the same time, it is critical that a comprehensive treatment plan focus on treating both conditions simultaneously for the best treatment outcomes and sustained recovery. 

Dual Diagnosis Detox at Sunrise

Individuals who are experiencing addiction to alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, certain stimulants or marijuana often need detoxification before they are ready to participate in an integrated treatment program fully. 

A medically supervised detox program provides a safe and supportive environment where you receive around-the-clock monitoring and FDA-approved medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings. This helps you find the stabilization needed to transition into inpatient or outpatient treatment.

Additionally, medically supervised detox allows for close observation that helps addiction specialists develop an individualized treatment plan to meet your unique needs. This includes assessing for co-occurring mental health disorders. 

Therapeutic Support During Detox 

In addition to fully supporting your physical needs, during detox, you may also participate in individual counseling, group therapy or peer support groups. 

Individual therapy during detox provides a place where you can start to process some of the intense emotions that detox can exacerbate including feelings of fear, anxiety or shame. It is also where you’ll start to develop some of the coping skills you will need to manage cravings, identify triggers and strengthen your motivation for recovery.

Group therapy and peer support groups offer an environment where you are surrounded by people who share similar experiences and understand that the decision to get help can be difficult and sometimes isolating. 

They also provide a place where you begin to learn the basic concepts of recovery including the importance of relapse prevention planning and developing healthy coping skills. These interactions help you to recognize that you are not alone and that detox is just the first step toward a future where addiction and mental illness are no longer in control of your life.

Conditions We Support During Detox

Sunrise Detox offers integrated care that not only focuses on helping you to safely clear alcohol or other substances from your body but also addresses any co-occurring mental health conditions that you may be experiencing.

We understand that detox can intensify mental health symptoms and that one of the best ways to prevent relapse is by addressing them during detox, helping to disrupt the cycle where emotional distress can trigger substance use. 

At Sunrise Detox, we provide support for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and other mental health conditions.

Why Integrated Detox Matters

An integrated detox program that addresses both substance use and mental health conditions provides the best foundation for long-term stabilization and recovery. 

The withdrawal process can increase feelings of anxiety and depression, psychosis, agitation and mood instability. As well, detox can raise the risk of self-harm, panic attacks, psychiatric crisis and suicidal ideation.

For these reasons, having an individualized treatment plan that focuses on addiction and co-occurring conditions increases safety, improves emotional regulation and impulse control and offers an environment of support and understanding that prepares you for the next step in recovery.

It is important to remember that detox is only the first step toward sobriety. The most effective approach to recovery requires continued treatment, including inpatient, residential or outpatient treatment and aftercare. 

Next Steps in the Recovery Journey

It is important to remember that detox is only the first step to long-term sobriety. The most effective approach toward long-term recovery requires continued treatment.

Once you are stabilized, you will be ready to take that next step which includes inpatient, residential or outpatient treatment and aftercare. Determining the appropriate level of care for your continued treatment depends on several factors, such as:

• The severity and duration of your substance use. 
• Whether your co-occurring mental health disorders are moderate or more severe
• Any co-existing health conditions that may make close supervision a safer option
• Any history of relapse
• The stability of the home environment
• Outside obligations such as family, school or work responsibilities
• Support availabiity including, peer support, family and access to treatment

You will work closely with your addictions team at Sunrise Detox to develop an aftercare plan that meets your needs. This may include inpatient or outpatient care depending on where you’re at in your recovery journey. All of these programs are available within the Preasum Healthcare system, offering a complete continuum of care.