The Link Between Substance Abuse & Mental Health
While the majority of our clients at Legacy Treatment Center present with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health issues, there are some who struggle solely with mental health or trauma-related concerns. It is not uncommon for young adults to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with distressing emotions or experiences. At Legacy, we recognize the importance of addressing both the underlying mental health concerns as well as the substance abuse in order to achieve optimal outcomes.
While we offer the 12-Step Program as an option for substance abuse recovery, participation is not mandatory. Our therapists are trained in a variety of evidence-based modalities including Smart Recovery and Dharma Recovery and will work collaboratively with clients to develop a treatment plan that aligns with their individual needs and preferences.
Often when clients first start treatment they may not see their substance abuse as a contributing factor to their life struggles. Others enter treatment because their substance use has become unmanageable and is making adult responsibilities and expectations impossible. In either case, and for those who fall in between, including sobriety or responsible use of substances as part of recovery is essential. Legacy has Substance Use Disorder Counselors (SUDC) who facilitate relapse prevention groups, and in some cases are the primary therapist for clients whose treatment focus is substance abuse. These experts also train and educate our guides to understand addiction and support our clients in their recovery. It is important to note that addictive patterns of behavior are not limited to substances only, but can be what is referred to as “Process Addictions” such as gambling, excessive buying, sexual addiction, gaming/electronic device addiction, disordered eating, and other behaviors that can be detrimental to developing and sustaining healthy adulthood.
