The Role of National Principles of Care in Co-Occurring Disorders

By following the National Principles of Care, healthcare providers can better care standards for people with co-occurring disorders.

Through collaborative efforts, treatments, and support, we can empower individuals to navigate the complexities of co-occurring disorders and embark on paths of recovery and wellness. 

Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders: Co-occurring disorders occur when a person has both a mental illness and a substance use disorder (SUD). It's a complex challenge that requires comprehensive and coordinated approaches for treatment and support. In the United States alone, about 21.5 million adults are dealing with these co-occurring disorders, which sheds a light on how important it is to have personalized and integrated care.

Symptoms and Causes: People with co-occurring disorders may experience varying symptoms from substance use problems and mental health conditions. The causes span from genetics, environment, and the connection between substance use and mental health challenges.

National Principles of Care: Aligned with the urgency of addressing co-occurring disorders, the National Principles of Care offer guidelines for bettering care delivery. These principles advocate for personalized, complete, and easy-to-reach services based on each person's needs.

• Routine Screenings: Screening for substance use disorders should be part of primary care settings, ensuring early detection.

• Personalized Treatment Plans: Treatment plans should be adjusted for each person's unique needs based on both substance use and mental health concerns.

• Fast Access to Treatment: Timely access to services is crucial in addressing the long-term needs of people with co-occurring disorders.

• Long-Term Disease Management: It's important to stick with treatment and support to manage co-occurring disorders over time and to sustain recovery.

• Coordinated Care: Combining physical, mental and substance use treatments helps promote holistic care delivery, addressing the different needs of each person.

• Behavioral Health Care: Evidence-based behavioral therapies play a crucial role in addressing problematic behaviors and fostering recovery.

• Medications for Treatment: FDA-approved medications complement comprehensive treatment plans, offering support in managing substance use disorders.

• Support for Recovery: Beyond just medical help, support services can assist with housing, employment and maintaining healthy relationships, which are important for sustaining recovery.