There is an all too tragic trend developing within the country, one that the masses often deny: individuals suffering from mental disorders are forced to rely on substances (such as alcohol, marijuana and an excess of prescription pills) to find relief. The assumptions still attached to disease – ones that brand all individuals unworthy of time or concern – have stripped away hope. There is no support. There is no pity. There is instead only the fear of being discovered and the belief that illegal drugs are a far kinder help than traditional medication.

And this has led to the emergence of the Co-Occurrence.

As the name implies, the Co-Occurrence is when an individual is plagued from dual disorders: one that is mental and one that is self-induced. Substance abuse is defined as a disability, and it becomes part of a far greater problem when combined with already unstable minds. Issues like depression, manic thoughts or aggressive tendencies can easily become exaggerated; and, as a dependency for a specific drug appears, the user is also faced with a sudden addiction. The elements blur into each other and create a vicious cycle.

It is essential therefore that the stigmas that dominate public opinion be erased. Those with mental disorders are not to be cast away, left to develop this secondary disease. They are instead to be provided with the necessary support and aid. Treatment is to be obtained for them – choosing centers that will address both the psychological problems and those formed from the substance abuse. MichaelsHouse.com and similar organizations should be considered.

The dangers of the Co-Occurrence are many and the results are often terrible. But there is help to be found. It simply requires the involvement of those who too often would turn away. It instead demands their determination and their willingness to care.