Co-Occurring Disorders

Mental health challenges and substance use often go hand-in-hand. When someone experiences both a psychiatric condition and a substance use disorder, it is known as a co-occurring disorder (or dual diagnosis). These conditions are deeply interconnected—substance use can worsen psychiatric symptoms, while untreated mental illness may lead someone to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. 

Co-occurring disorders can involve combinations such as depression and alcohol use disorder, anxiety and opioid dependence, bipolar disorder and stimulant abuse, or PTSD and cannabis misuse. Without integrated treatment, each condition can fuel the other, making recovery more difficult.

 The most effective approach is comprehensive care that addresses both conditions at the same time. Treating only one side of the problem often leaves patients vulnerable to relapse or worsening symptoms. 

At the Brain and Mind Healing Center, Dr. Kotbi—Former Chief of the Addiction and Rehabilitation Program at Weill Cornell Medicine/NYP Westchester, Former Training Director of the Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Weill Cornell/NYP, and a board-certified Addiction Medicine specialist in treating complex substance use disorders and co-occurring conditions—offers highly specialized care for individuals with dual diagnoses. As a distinguished educator and clinician, Dr. Kotbi provides a comprehensive care approach, combining expert diagnostic skills with personalized treatment planning for patients with complex co-morbidities. His expertise spans psychiatric, neurological, medical, and addiction disorders, allowing for compassionate and holistic care. This approach includes personalized evaluations, ongoing medication management, and second-opinion consultations, with collaborative behavioral support from licensed therapists when necessary. 

Signs of Co-Occurring Disorders
● Using substances to cope with mental health symptoms
● Worsening anxiety, depression, or mood instability during substance use
● Struggling to maintain sobriety despite psychiatric treatment
● Increased risk-taking or unsafe behaviors
● Withdrawal from relationships and responsibilities
● Frequent relapses when one condition goes untreated