A co-occurring alcohol and drug disorder means a person has both a substance issue and a mental health issue at the same time. Life can be tough. We can spot warning signs early. If you have concerns about yourself or a loved one, we’re here to support you.
1. Big Changes in Mood or Thinking
An individual might appear extremely depressed, angry, or frightened. They can utter unreasonable things. They may lose things or experience difficulty in listening. Thoughts and feelings may be aggravated by drugs and alcohol.
2. Using More than Intended
The person may say they will only have one drink or one dose, but they use more. They may try to stop, but not be able to. This happens even when the person knows it causes trouble at school, work, or home.
3. Losing Interest in Normal Things
People start to skip hobbies, sports, or family time. Friends and family may feel left out. If someone only wants to use drugs or drink, this is a strong warning sign.
4. Problems with Sleep or Energy
They may sleep too much or not sleep at all. Some days they feel tired and weak. Other days they seem wired and cannot sit still. These big changes in sleep and energy can be caused by both drugs and mental health problems.
5. Risky or Secret Behavior
The individual can engage in dangerous activities such as drunk driving. They can conceal their usage or deceive others about their location. They can waste money they don’t even have yet. Secrecy and risky actions often show that the problem is getting worse.
6. Physical Signs and Health Problems
Look for changes in weight, poor hygiene, or frequent shaking. The person may have stomach pain or feel sick a lot. They may have bruises or get infections more often. Drugs and alcohol can damage the body.
7. Trouble with Work or School
Grades may drop. Jobs may be lost. The person may be late a lot or miss days. This can happen even when the person once did well. Problems at work or school are a clear sign that help is needed.
What to Do If You See These Signs
If you see one or more of these signs, talk to someone you trust. You can also call a health clinic. Do not wait until things get worse. People get better with help.
If the person is in danger, has stopped breathing, is not waking up, or talks about hurting themselves, call emergency services right away.
How We Can Help at ARK Medical Of Las Vegas
We are ARK Medical Of Las Vegas. We help families and people with several health needs. We treat both the body and the mind. Here are some of the services we offer that can help:
- Mental and Behavioral Health Outpatient Services. We can diagnose and manage mental health conditions, including co-occurring alcohol and drug use.
- Telemedicine. You can see us by video if you cannot come in.
- Family Practice Outpatient Services. We care for the whole family and check physical health.
- Urgent Care and Acute Visits. If you need quick help, we can see you.
- Pediatric Outpatient Services. We help children and teens, too.
- Screening and Other Services. We do tests and screenings to find problems early.
Our care team includes Cecilio Gonzales, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, USMLE / ECFMG Certified. Cecilio studied nursing and medicine. He has worked in both clinics and hospitals. He treats patients of all ages. He helps with mental health care and with physical health problems. You can meet him at our clinic or by telemedicine.
What Happens During Care
First, we listen to you. We ask simple questions about health, sleep, mood, and substance use. We do a check of the body. We may offer lab tests or screenings. Then we make a plan that fits the person. This plan may include therapy, medicines, and regular checkups. We work with the person and their family. We respect privacy and treat everyone with kindness.
Tips for Families and Friends
- Talk calmly. Use kind words.
- Offer help. Ask, “How can I help?” not “Why did you do this?”
- Learn about co-occurring disorders. Simple facts help.
- Set healthy limits. Keep yourself safe.
- Join a support group. It helps to talk to others who care.
Hope and Recovery
People can and do get better. Recovery takes time. Small steps matter. One good step is asking for help. Another good step is keeping doctor’s visits. We will stand with you and your family.
How to Reach Us
If you think you or someone you love has a co-occurring alcohol and drug disorder, call ARK Medical Of Las Vegas. You can ask for a mental health visit or a telemedicine appointment. Ask to see Cecilio Gonzales or another member of our mental health team. We will listen and make a plan that is kind and clear.
FAQs
Q. What if I am scared to ask for help?
That is okay. We will be kind. You are not alone. We will help keep you safe.
Q. Can kids and teens have this too?
Yes. Kids and teens can have both problems. We help children and teens at our clinic.
