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Post an example of two possible co-occurring disorders

Co-occurring disorders, such as prescription drug dependence and generalized anxiety disorder, are two possible disorders that could cause harm to ones life. Capuzzi and Stauffer (2017) affirm that, comorbidity involves mental and emotional disorders that coincide with substance use disorders within an individual (p. 193). In a professional setting, clinicians may lean towards diagnosing a client with an anxiety disorder especially if they were made aware that that client prefers to self-medicate to make themselves feel calm. Clients who have previously been diagnosed with anxiety may use specific substances to feel relaxed or numb. For example, those who are given high dosages of medication after surgery can become dependent on the medication depending on the dosage. Clients may continue to rely on the medication even when they are not in any pain. They may become anxious that the pain will return, which may indicate why they continue to take them.

Explain how those co-occurring disorders may present challenges to treatment for people with problems with addiction

There are several challenges that individuals may face when it comes to seeking treatment. Those who suffer from severe mental illnesses have a higher risk of being diagnosed with co-occurring substance abuse disorders (SUD). One common barrier to treatment are clients who are faced with frequent stigmatization for having a co-existing disability and a SUD. For example, a client may have a severe limp due to an infection in their leg, in which they were given medication for. They may become anxious with the thought of being seen in public due to a fear of being judged based on how they walk, which may be why they continue to take the pills and choose to never leave their house.

Other barriers include cultural issues during the assessment process. Capuzzi and Stauffer (2016) highlight that, Especially during assessment, it is important that counselors understand the background of clients in addition to methods of communication, healing, and understanding of both mental disorders and substance use  disorders (p. 198). If clinicians are not culturally competent, it hinders the clients chances of seeking accurate treatment for their co-occurring disorder. Therefore, individuals who have co-occurring disorders are less likely to complete treatment due to several different barriers that can be caused by language, demeanor, or physical implications that limit their ability to seek various treatment options (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2016).

Finally, explain two strategies that an addiction professional may utilize to address those challenges

In order to address these challenges, it is essential for an addiction professional to understand the different techniques that should be utilized to help a client with comorbidity during treatment. According to Capuzzi and Stauffer (2016) Individuals presenting with comorbidity require careful treatment planning that addresses both substance use disorders and mental health issues (p. 200). For example, an addiction professional may meet with the client primarily by utilizing a telehealth platform since they have of fear of being judged by others due to their limp. If the client becomes comfortable with the clinician, there may be a good chance that the client could work up the confidence to visit the addiction professional at the treatment facility in person.

Secondly, I think it would be beneficial for an addiction professional to use a form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with the client to help them identify their addictive behaviors. CBT can be used to help clients recognize addictive behaviors and learn alternative healthy ways to cope with their addiction (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2016).

Reference:

Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2016). Foundations of addictions counseling (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Pearson Education, Inc.

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Post an example of two possible co-occurring disorders.

Two possible co-occurring disorders are major depression disorder and anxiety disorder. They report that about 25-30% of alcoholics experience depression and anxiety, respectively, while approximately 25% of all suicides are committed by individuals with chronic alcohol use disorders (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2016).

Explain how those co-occurring disorders may present challenges to treatment for people with problems with addiction.

These disorders may be a challenge to treat for people with problems with addiction. People with mental health disorders may be hiding these symptoms with the addiction.  The client may not be able to face a therapist and talk about their mental illness.

Explain two strategies than an addiction professional may utilize to address those challenges.

The addiction professional could utilize a multidisciplinary team and offer the client that 12 step programs. One of the most widely recognized groups for the treatment of addictions is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2016). These groups will provide emotional and practical support to the client. The challenges that the clients have another client may be able to guide them.  A client may gain the most from having his or her team of family therapist, addictions counselor, psychiatrist/medical provider, probation officer, and/or sponsor working together toward his or her desired recovery outcomes (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2016).

Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2016). Foundations of addictions counseling (3rd ed.). New York, NY: Pearson Education, Inc.