Recovery from addiction is never a straight, simple path. It is a journey of learning, unlearning, growing, and often, facing uncomfortable truths about ourselves. One of the biggest challenges on this path is when addiction is paired with a mental health disorder, a situation known as co-occurring disorders.
Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis, occur when a person struggles with addiction and a mental health disorder at the same time. This could be depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or any other mental health condition combined with substance use or behavioural addictions like gambling. It is more common than many people realise and it can complicate recovery if not recognised and treated properly.
At The Way Recovery Centre in Pretoria, Dr Jolandi Meyer works closely with individuals facing this challenge, ensuring they receive medical care, psychological support, and practical strategies to address both conditions together.
Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders
It is easy to think of mental health and addiction as two separate issues, but they often overlap. In many cases, mental health issues can lead to substance use as a way of coping with symptoms, while addiction itself can worsen or trigger mental health conditions.
Here are some examples:
A person with anxiety may drink alcohol to calm their nerves, which can lead to dependency over time.
Someone living with depression may use stimulants to feel energised or motivated, developing an addiction.
A person with PTSD may use cannabis or prescription medication to numb intrusive memories or flashbacks.
Those with bipolar disorder may misuse substances during manic or depressive episodes.
The reality is, the lines are often blurred, and without proper treatment, the cycle can continue indefinitely.
Why Co-Occurring Disorders Are Common
There are several reasons why co-occurring disorders happen so frequently:
Shared risk factors: Genetics, trauma, chronic stress, and environmental factors can contribute to both mental illness and addiction.
Self-medication: People often use substances to ease symptoms of mental health conditions, leading to dependency.
Brain chemistry: Substances alter the brain’s chemistry, worsening mental health symptoms over time.
Undiagnosed conditions: Many people live with undiagnosed mental health disorders for years, turning to substances for relief without understanding the underlying issue.
This is why it is critical to look deeper when treating addiction, to uncover and address any co-existing mental health issues.
How Co-Occurring Disorders Affect Recovery
Recovery from addiction is already challenging. When a mental health disorder is added to the mix, the process can become more complex for several reasons:
Increased risk of relapse
If the underlying mental health condition is not treated, it can trigger cravings and relapse. For example, untreated depression can lead to substance use as a coping mechanism during low periods.
Complex withdrawal symptoms
Withdrawal can worsen mental health symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and insomnia, making it harder to stay on track without professional support.
Difficulty engaging in treatment
People with co-occurring disorders may struggle with concentration, motivation, or emotional regulation, making it harder to participate fully in therapy or group sessions.
Medication interactions
Treating mental health conditions often involves medication, which needs careful management in individuals with addiction to avoid misuse or interactions.
Emotional overwhelm
Dealing with addiction and mental health challenges simultaneously can feel overwhelming, increasing feelings of hopelessness if not managed properly.
Why Integrated Treatment Is Essential
Trying to treat addiction and mental health separately is like trying to patch a leaking boat without fixing the hole. If one condition is ignored, it can undermine progress in the other.
Integrated treatment means addressing both addiction and mental health issues together, recognising how they interact, and providing coordinated care. This approach is essential for long-term recovery.
At The Way Recovery Centre, Dr Jolandi Meyer offers integrated care in collaboration with therapists, addiction counsellors, and other professionals, ensuring that patients receive holistic treatment that addresses all parts of their wellbeing.
How Dr Jolandi Meyer Supports Patients with Co-Occurring Disorders
Dr Meyer’s approach combines medical expertise with compassionate care, ensuring patients receive the best chance at sustainable recovery.
Comprehensive assessment
Dr Meyer begins with a thorough assessment to identify mental health conditions and substance use patterns, creating a clear picture of each patient’s unique situation.
Medically supervised detox
Withdrawal can be complex for those with co-occurring disorders. Dr Meyer ensures that detox is managed safely, monitoring both physical health and mental well-being throughout the process.
Personalised treatment planning
Each patient receives a treatment plan that addresses both their addiction and mental health needs, including medication management if appropriate.
Ongoing medical care
As a GP, Dr Meyer continues to support patients throughout recovery, monitoring mental and physical health and adjusting treatment as needed.
Collaboration with The Way Recovery Centre team
Working closely with the centre’s therapists and addiction specialists, Dr Meyer ensures patients receive consistent support, therapy, and education to build coping skills and prevent relapse.
Signs of Co-Occurring Disorders
If you or a loved one are struggling, it is important to recognise the signs of co-occurring disorders. Some indicators include:
Using substances to manage emotions or mental health symptoms
Experiencing anxiety, depression, or mood swings alongside substance use
Worsening mental health symptoms when trying to stop using substances
Difficulty maintaining relationships or responsibilities due to both mental health and addiction
Feeling unable to cope with daily life without substances
If these sound familiar, know that help is available, and you do not have to face it alone.
Why Seeking Help Early Matters
The longer co-occurring disorders go untreated, the more complicated they become. Substance use can worsen mental health, while untreated mental health issues can lead to increased substance use. This cycle can lead to health complications, relationship issues, job loss, and a decline in overall quality of life.
Early intervention can prevent further damage and make recovery more manageable. With the right support, people can learn to manage their mental health and live a fulfilling life in recovery.
For information on our 28-day in-patient programme with professional qualified medical detox from addiction and a platform of different approaches to addicts suffering from long-term gambling, alcohol and/or drug addiction, get in touch with Dr. Jolandi Meyer at The Way Recovery – Gambling, Drug & Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facility in Pretoria. A six-week outpatient programme with individual counselling, group therapy, and family support is also available from The Way Recovery.
The Way Recovery Halfway House in Pretoria offers a reintegration, aftercare programme to aid the addict who has finished a detox programme in adjusting to society for the recovering addict who still struggles.
How Dr Jolandi Meyer Treats Addiction as a Medical Condition
Dr Jolandi Meyer is a GP with specialised experience in treating drug, alcohol, and gambling addiction. Her medical practice is located on the premises of The Way Recovery Centre in Pretoria, allowing her to work side by side with a multidisciplinary team of therapists, addiction counsellors, and support staff.
Her approach is based on medical evidence, empathy, and respect. Here’s how she helps patients manage addiction as a chronic condition:
Medical Evaluation and Diagnosis
Dr Meyer conducts a full medical assessment to understand the scope of each individual’s physical and mental health. This includes identifying co-occurring disorders like anxiety, depression, or trauma, which are common in those struggling with addiction.
Safe Detoxification
Many substances cause withdrawal symptoms when stopped abruptly. Dr Meyer provides medically supervised detox to ensure that this process is safe and as comfortable as possible. This is critical for substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, which can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if not properly managed.
Personalised Treatment Planning
Each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. This may include medication to manage cravings, therapy to address emotional triggers, and lifestyle changes to support long-term health.
Ongoing GP Support
Unlike traditional rehab, Dr Meyer remains involved beyond the initial treatment. She continues to monitor patients’ progress, adjust medication where needed, and work closely with therapists to ensure holistic recovery.
Supporting a Loved One with Co-Occurring Disorders
Watching someone you care about struggle with addiction and mental health issues can be incredibly difficult. You may feel helpless, frustrated, or unsure of what to do. Here are some ways you can help:
Educate yourself about co-occurring disorders to understand their complexity.
Encourage professional help from specialists like Dr Meyer who understand dual diagnosis treatment.
Listen without judgement and let them know you care.
Set healthy boundaries while offering support.
Look after your own well-being to avoid burnout while supporting them.
Remember, your role is to support, not to fix the problem alone.
Recovery is not just about stopping substance use, it is about healing the whole person, including their mental health. Co-occurring disorders can complicate recovery, but with the right treatment, support, and understanding, people can and do find lasting recovery.
Dr Jolandi Meyer, together with the team at The Way Recovery Centre, offers compassionate, integrated care for individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges, providing the tools needed for a healthier, more hopeful future.
If you or a loved one is struggling with co-occurring disorders, reach out today. Help is available, and you do not have to face this alone.
Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment. Her practice is located in Garsfontein, Pretoria on the same premises as The Way Recovery Centre.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.