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Serving Central Washington for Over 40 Years

co-occurring-disorders-treatment

When you are struggling with your mental health, it can be tempting to lean on substances for relief. A drink after work. A pill to help you sleep. Substances to calm your mind. Over time, though, that “relief” can start to backfire. Instead of feeling better, you may notice more anxiety, depression, and stress that is even harder to manage. If any of this sounds familiar, MERIT is here to help. As Central Washington’s trusted provider of co-occurring disorders treatment, we offer evidence-based care that addresses mental health and substance use with a coordinated treatment plan.

What Are Co-Occurring Disorders?

Co-occurring disorders, also referred to as dual diagnosis, describe the situation when an individual struggles with a substance use disorder and a mental health condition at the same time. These conditions are closely linked, and the presence of one can exacerbate the symptoms of the other. Understanding how these challenges interact is an important first step in finding the right support and resources.

Why Integrated Care Matters

Treating only one part of a co-occurring disorder usually fails to provide lasting recovery. When mental health symptoms are unaddressed, some people find it harder to avoid returning to substance use. Also, ongoing substance use can make mental health symptoms more difficult to manage and can reduce the effectiveness of therapy and medication. Research suggests that integrated treatment can promote engagement in care, reduce hospitalizations, and improve outcomes.

Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment at MERIT

When you visit MERIT, we work with you to explore the connections between your mental health symptoms and substance use. Our goal is to identify the triggers and build a plan to help you handle cravings, mood changes, and stress in real-life situations. Along the way, we will also set goals, track your progress, and guide you to build skills that support lasting recovery beyond treatment.

What Your Dual-Diagnosis Treatment May Look Like

During your first visit, we start with a confidential assessment to learn about your medical history, substance use patterns, mental health symptoms, previous treatment experiences, and personal recovery goals. With that information, we create a personalized treatment plan designed to support your recovery, help you manage symptoms, and improve your day-to-day functioning.

Your co-occurring disorders treatment plan may include:

Why Choose MERIT for Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment

MERIT is a trusted provider of co-occurring disorders treatment in Central Washington. Here are a few reasons individuals and families consistently choose MERIT for alcohol and substance use services.

  • Evidence-based treatment for mental health and substance use
  • CARF-accredited facilities
  • Flexible online and telehealth options
  • Bilingual services in English and Spanish
  • Acceptance of major insurance plans
  • Flexible payment options
  • Convenient locations in Yakima, Ellensburg, Kennewick, Pasco, Sunnyside, Toppenish, and Wapato

Contact MERIT at 877-789-3344 to schedule a consultation with a co-occurring disorders treatment specialist. MERIT is a leading provider of behavioral health and substance abuse treatment programs in Ellensburg, Kennewick, Pasco, Sunnyside, Toppenish, Wapato, and Yakima.