Premier Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment at Sierra Tucson

Learn About Co-Occurring Disorders 

Co-occurring disorders refers to the presence of two or more conditions that interact with and often intensify one another. Rather than existing in isolation, these conditions become interconnected, influencing the onset, severity and course of each other, making it essential to receive integrated treatment to find lasting healing. 

Co-occurring disorders can take various forms. Some individuals may suffer from symptoms of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, which is also referred to clinically as dual diagnosis. Others may struggle with multiple substance use disorders or with multiple mental health disorders.  

Research consistently shows that treating only one condition at a time while overlooking the symptoms of other concerns leads to poorer treatment outcomes and higher rates of relapse. At our treatment center in Tucson, Arizona, our interdisciplinary team is equipped to address the full complexity of co-occurring disorders within a single, cohesive course of care. We are dually licensed to treat individuals who are suffering from mental health concerns, addictions or both, which allows us to shape treatment based on a whole-person approach. 

Signs & Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders 

Because co-occurring disorders involve more than one condition, the signs and symptoms a person displays can vary widely depending on the specific combination of diagnoses. Symptoms may overlap, mask one another or appear to shift over time, which is one reason why receiving a thorough clinical assessment and comprehensive treatment is so important. 

Common signs that a person may be suffering from co-occurring disorders include: 

Behavioral symptoms 

• Using substances to cope with emotional distress or other symptoms of mental health disorders 

• Impulsive or risky behaviors 

• Withdrawal from social activities or relationships 

• Difficulty taking care of daily responsibilities or sudden, unexpected changes in daily routines 

• Struggling to perform at work or succeed professionally 

• Repeated attempts to stop using substances without success 

Emotional symptoms 

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness or feelings of emotional numbness 

• Intense or difficult-to-control fear, worry or anxiety 

• Rapid or unpredictable mood shifts 

• Irritability, anger or heightened emotional reactivity 

• Feelings of guilt, shame or worthlessness 

Cognitive symptoms 

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions 

• Racing thoughts or mental fog 

• Impaired judgment 

• Intrusive or distressing thoughts 

• Overwhelming cravings for drugs or alcohol 

Physical symptoms 

• Changes in sleep, appetite or weight 

• Fatigue, low energy or chronic physical exhaustion 

• Ongoing or unexplained physical pain 

• Physical tension, restlessness or psychomotor changes 

• Headaches, sweating or nausea 

• Drug or alcohol withdrawal 

If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or someone you care about, reaching out for a professional evaluation is an important step to take.  

Effects of Co-Occurring Disorders 

When someone is suffering from co-occurring disorders and does not receive treatment, the effects can extend into nearly every area of their life. Mental health disorder symptoms may become more severe, substance use may escalate and the interactions between the two can make daily functioning increasingly difficult. 

Common effects of untreated co-occurring disorders include: 

• Worsening depression, anxiety, trauma-related distress or mood instability 

• Greater risk for medical complications and the need for detox or acute stabilization services 

• Strained relationships and loss of trust  

• Disruption at work, job loss and chronic unemployment 

• Ongoing cycles of relapse and emotional pain 

• Overall reduced quality of life 

The good news is that co-occurring disorders are treatable. With the right level of care — one that addresses all conditions simultaneously through a coordinated, individualized approach — healing is possible. 

Benefits of Getting Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment 

Seeking integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders is one of the most meaningful things someone can do. When all conditions are addressed together, rather than separately, the outcomes are significantly stronger. Key benefits can include: 

• Improved symptom management 

• Lower risk for relapse 

• Better physical health 

• Stronger relationships 

• Greater self-understanding 

• Improved quality of life 

Our Experienced Treatment Team 

We are proud of our dedicated, multidisciplinary team members, who have devoted themselves to providing the utmost in clinically excellent treatment. Our integrated team consists of a range of professionals from various backgrounds and disciplines, including: 

• Psychiatrists 

• Addictionologists 

• Psychologists 

• Internal medicine physicians 

• Licensed professional counselors 

• Clinical social workers 

• Licensed marriage and family therapists 

• Registered nurses 

• Licensed practical nurses 

• Nurse practitioners 

• Nutritionists 

• Chiropractors 

• Naturopathic physicians 

• Physical therapists 

• Massage therapists 

• Acupuncturists 

• Craniosacral therapists 

• Personal trainers 

These individuals work together to provide a well-rounded experience for each resident. 

All-Inclusive Care for Co-Occurring Disorders 

At Sierra Tucson, we understand that treating co-occurring disorders separately is not sufficient. We believe in the importance of addressing all the concerns a person has in one cohesive treatment experience. Our compassionate team of experienced professionals builds an individualized treatment plan to address each resident’s unique combination of needs, integrating conventional psychiatric and medical care with evidence-based therapies and complementary experiential treatment options. 

We understand that people who are living with co-occurring disorders frequently face multiple challenges, so we have designed our specialized, holistic services to treat the entire person — mind, body and spirit — so that healing can take place at every level. 

At Sierra Tucson, residents can expect the following: 

• Individualized care plans: Every resident’s treatment is tailored by on-site clinicians to reflect their history, treatment goals and presenting symptoms. 

• Evidence-based therapies: The treatment modalities we use are research-backed and have proved to be effective in treating people who have co-occurring disorders. Examples of these modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing®. 

• Integrative and experiential care: We offer many complementary services and therapies, such as equine-assisted therapy, biofeedback, yoga and acupuncture, to ensure that each person’s needs are fully met while they are in our care. 

• Continuing care and support: Residents have access to our robust alumni services and can maintain a connection with our alumni community, helping them remain successful on their healing journey for the long term. 

The exact services someone receives while getting treatment at Sierra Tucson are outlined in their personal care plan. You can review our full list of therapies by clicking here and explore our integrative healing services by clicking here.  

When treatment ends, residents return home with a broad range of new skills, insights and resources to help them move forward to a healthier, happier future with the confidence they need to thrive.