Addiction and mental health disorders often go hand in hand, creating a complex cycle that can be difficult to break without proper treatment. When someone struggles with both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, it’s known as a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis.
At Summit Helps in New Jersey, we understand that treating addiction without addressing underlying mental health issues often leads to relapse and ongoing struggles. That’s why our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provide integrated care, ensuring individuals receive the support they need to heal both mentally and physically.
The Connection Between Addiction and Mental Health
Many people turn to substances as a way to cope with unmanaged mental health symptoms. For example:
- Someone with anxiety may use alcohol or benzodiazepines to feel calmer.
- Individuals with depression may use stimulants or other drugs to temporarily boost their mood.
- Someone with PTSD or trauma may use substances to numb emotional pain.
While substances may provide short-term relief, they worsen mental health over time, leading to a dangerous cycle of dependency. Additionally, substance use can trigger or intensify mental health disorders, making it even harder for individuals to find stability.
Why Treating Both Disorders Together Is Essential
Traditional addiction treatment often focuses solely on stopping substance use, but if an underlying mental health condition is left untreated, the risk of relapse increases. Effective recovery requires an integrated approach that treats both addiction and mental health simultaneously.
At Summit Helps, our PHP and IOP programs provide:
✔ Comprehensive mental health support – Therapists help individuals understand and manage conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
✔ Addiction-focused therapy – Clients learn how to break the cycle of substance use through evidence-based techniques.
✔ Medication management – If needed, psychiatrists provide medication to help stabilize mental health symptoms without fueling addiction.
✔ Holistic healing approaches – Mindfulness, nutrition, and self-care practices help individuals rebuild their well-being.
How PHP and IOP Support Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
PHP is a structured, intensive treatment option for individuals who need daily support but do not require 24/7 residential care. PHP provides:
- Daily therapy sessions focusing on addiction and mental health.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) when appropriate.
- Skill-building workshops for emotional regulation and relapse prevention.
- A safe and supportive environment that fosters healing.
PHP is ideal for individuals who need a higher level of care before transitioning into outpatient treatment.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP offers a flexible treatment schedule that allows individuals to continue work, school, or family responsibilities while receiving structured support. IOP includes:
- Group therapy to build community and learn from shared experiences.
- Individual counseling to address personal challenges and mental health concerns.
- Relapse prevention strategies to maintain sobriety long-term.
IOP is a great step for those transitioning from PHP or for individuals who need structured treatment but do not require full-time care.
Find Healing at Summit Helps
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and mental health challenges, you are not alone. At Summit Helps in New Jersey, our PHP and IOP programs provide the comprehensive care needed to heal both mind and body.
Reach out today to learn how our integrated approach can support lasting recovery. Healing starts here.
