- 2 Industrial Park Dr. Suite 5, Concord, NH 03301
- 2 Industrial Park Dr. Suite 5, Concord, NH 03301
At Bold Steps New Hampshire, we understand that many individuals face the challenge of managing both addiction and mental health issues at the same time. In our state, where substance use disorders—especially involving alcohol, methamphetamine, and opioids—are a significant concern, it’s not uncommon for mental health struggles to compound the difficulty of recovery.
Dual diagnosis occurs when an individual struggles with both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. At Bold Steps, we understand the challenges that come with this combination and the need for specialized, integrated treatment that addresses both conditions at once. The relationship between addiction and mental health is complex, as the symptoms of one can exacerbate the other, making recovery more difficult. Our approach to dual diagnosis treatment is designed to simultaneously tackle both the substance use and the mental health disorder, using a holistic, comprehensive strategy. By treating both issues together, we help clients break free from the cycle of addiction and mental health challenges, equipping them with the tools necessary for a balanced, fulfilling recovery.
It’s not just coincidence—there are real, evidence-based reasons why mental health issues and substance use so often go hand in hand.
Here’s what we know:
Self-medication: People with anxiety, depression, or other conditions may use substances to manage symptoms. It works temporarily, but usually worsens things over time.
Shared risk factors: Trauma, genetics, and environmental stress all increase the likelihood of developing both a mental illness and a substance use disorder.
Delayed diagnosis: Some people never receive a proper psychiatric evaluation for their underlying mental health condition. Without that clarity, they may turn to substances to cope.
Compounding impact: Substance use can cause changes in brain chemistry that mimic—or magnify—existing mental health conditions.
That’s why integrated treatment matters. At Bold Steps, we don’t separate mental health and addiction care. We treat both together, using evidence-based therapies and real collaboration between clinicians, peers, and families.
Family involvement is a key part of our approach. Healing happens faster—and sticks longer—when loved ones understand the full picture and have support of their own.
Dual diagnosis occurs when an individual experiences both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder simultaneously. Identifying the signs of dual diagnosis is essential for delivering effective treatment, as these conditions can exacerbate one another, complicating the recovery process. Some of the most common indicators of dual diagnosis include:
Co-occurring disorders—also known as dual diagnoses—refer to the presence of both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder. These combinations aren’t random. Certain mental illnesses often show up alongside specific types of addiction.
Here are a few examples we see often:
Depression and alcohol use: Many people struggling with major depression use alcohol to numb emotional pain or sleep better, only to find that it deepens their symptoms over time.
Anxiety disorders and benzodiazepine misuse: Medications like Xanax are prescribed for anxiety, but some turn to these drugs for relief without support—leading to dependency.
Bipolar disorder and stimulant use: During manic phases, stimulant use (like cocaine or meth) can feel like an extension of the high. But the crash is harder, and cycles become more extreme.
PTSD and opioid misuse: Trauma survivors often use opioids to quiet flashbacks or physical pain, increasing their risk of addiction.
Borderline personality disorder and polysubstance use: Intense emotional swings can drive impulsive substance use across multiple drug types.
That’s why every client at Bold Steps receives an individualized treatment plan and ongoing input from a licensed clinical team. Whether it’s through group therapy, medication, or trauma-informed care, we meet the whole person—not just their diagnosis.
Co-occurring disorders—also known as dual diagnoses—refer to the presence of both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder. These combinations aren’t random. Certain mental illnesses often show up alongside specific types of addiction.
Here are a few examples we see often:
Depression and alcohol use: Many people struggling with major depression use alcohol to numb emotional pain or sleep better, only to find that it deepens their symptoms over time.
Anxiety disorders and benzodiazepine misuse: Medications like Xanax are prescribed for anxiety, but some turn to these drugs for relief without support—leading to dependency.
Bipolar disorder and stimulant use: During manic phases, stimulant use (like cocaine or meth) can feel like an extension of the high. But the crash is harder, and cycles become more extreme.
PTSD and opioid misuse: Trauma survivors often use opioids to quiet flashbacks or physical pain, increasing their risk of addiction.
Borderline personality disorder and polysubstance use: Intense emotional swings can drive impulsive substance use across multiple drug types.
That’s why every client at Bold Steps receives an individualized treatment plan and ongoing input from a licensed clinical team. Whether it’s through group therapy, medication, or trauma-informed care, we meet the whole person—not just their diagnosis.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Comorbidity: Substance Use and Other Mental Disorders.” National Institute on Drug Abuse, 15 Aug. 2018, nida.nih.gov/research-topics/comorbidity/comorbidity-substance-use-other-mental-disorders-infographic.>.
Cleveland Clinic. “Dual Diagnosis: Definition & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 2023, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24426-dual-diagnosis.
“Drug Use Statistics and Demographics.” Caron Treatment Centers, www.caron. org/addiction-101/drug-use/statistics-and-demographics?.
SAMHSA. “Co-Occurring Disorders and Other Health Conditions.” Www.samhsa.gov, 26 July 2023, www.samhsa.gov/medications-substance-use-disorders/medications-counseling-related-conditions/co-occurring-disorders?.
Not all dual diagnosis treatment centers offer the same level of care. If you’re seeking dual diagnosis treatment near you, it’s important to know what signs of quality to watch for.
Here are a few key things to consider:
If you’re looking for dual diagnosis treatment in New Hampshire, our team at Bold Steps offers a compassionate, evidence-based path to recovery that meets you where you are.
If you or someone you care about is facing co-occurring disorders, it’s important to get the right support for lasting recovery. At Bold Steps New Hampshire, we offer compassionate care in a safe and supportive environment tailored to your unique needs. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through your recovery journey, helping you build a strong foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Finding the right dual diagnosis rehab program can feel overwhelming—but knowing what types of support to expect can make the choice easier.
At Bold Steps, our approach includes:
No two paths are the same—but with the right care, recovery becomes possible. If you’re navigating both mental health and substance use concerns, dual diagnosis treatment in New Hampshire is available—and you’re not alone in it.
At Bold Steps New Hampshire, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, providing comprehensive care for both addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. Our personalized therapy approach is designed to meet the unique needs of each client, fostering long-term recovery and promoting overall well-being through holistic healing.
The cost of dual diagnosis rehab depends on factors such as the level of care needed, the duration of treatment, and the specific services provided. Since dual diagnosis treatment addresses both mental health and substance use disorders, it typically involves more specialized therapies and a higher intensity of care, which can make it more expensive than traditional rehab programs. However, this comprehensive approach is essential for long-term recovery. At Bold Steps, we are committed to offering personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that support both mental health and addiction recovery, empowering individuals to heal and thrive. For more information, we recommend reviewing your insurance policy or contacting us directly at (603) 915-4223.
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