Co‑Occurring Disorders
A mental health disorder and a substance use disorder occurring at the same time.
What are co‑occurring disorders?
Something that builds over time, not all at once.
What is relapse?
Situations that make using more likely.
What is a high‑risk situation?
Changes in mood or emotions.
What usually happens before cravings start?
Smells, sights, or places linked to past use.
What are triggers?
Anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms that increase urges to use substances.
What mental health symptoms increase relapse risk?
Isolation, mood changes, and neglecting self‑care.
What are signs of emotional relapse?
When stress, emotions, and triggers stack up.
When does relapse risk significantly increase?
Going over the same worries again and again.
What is rumination?
Being alone and not reaching out.
Why is isolation risky in recovery?
Using substances to manage or control emotional distress.
What is self‑medication?
Cravings, bargaining thoughts, and justifying potential substance use.
What are signs of mental relapse?
Feeling anxious, depressed, angry, or ashamed.
What emotions increase relapse risk?
Thinking, “I’ve got this — I don’t need support.”
What is overconfidence in recovery?
Keeping substances or paraphernalia nearby.
What makes a home environment high‑risk?
Treating mental health and substance use disorders at the same time.
What is integrated treatment?
It helps people catch problems earlier.
Why is it helpful to view relapse as a process?
Thinking “I already messed up” or “It won’t matter.”
What thoughts increase relapse risk?
Missing appointments or skipping treatment.
What does treatment instability look like?
Spending time with people who still use.
What relationships increase relapse risk?
A large number of people in recovery experience both issues.
Are co‑occurring disorders common or rare?
Asthma or diabetes.
Relapse is similar to which type of illness?
Feeling hopeless or worthless because of past trauma.
What trauma‑based thoughts raise relapse risk?
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or out of control.
What are signs trauma might be affecting recovery?
Major life changes like breakups or job
What life events make relapse more likely?