We’ve all done it. Something feels “off” with your kid, you notice a few instances of strange behavior, and with a few taps on your phone, you’re buried in a sea of articles, blogs, and forums, each one with a different opinion about your loved one's mental health and telling you why your world is about to end. It is overwhelming, contradictory, and, at worst, terrifying. While Googling symptoms can give you a superficial understanding of what may be going on, it is not a substitute for professional help—especially when it comes to the complex world of mental health and substance use disorders.
At Momentum Recovery, we understand how daunting it can feel to begin the journey of getting your young adult the treatment they need, particularly if they’re struggling with both mental health and substance use issues. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the practical steps to start the process of mental health treatment for your young adult child and why professional, structured care is so crucial for long-term success.
The Complexity of Dual-Diagnosis in Young Adults
Dual-diagnosis refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. For many young adults, untreated mental health issues—such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or ADHD—can fuel the misuse of substances, creating a cycle that becomes increasingly difficult to break on their own. The interplay between these conditions requires an integrated approach that addresses both issues simultaneously.
Without comprehensive treatment, young adults may continue to self-medicate, which can worsen their mental health symptoms and escalate their substance use. This vicious cycle is why our facility specializes in dual-diagnosis treatment, ensuring that every aspect of your child’s mental and physical health is accounted for in their recovery journey.
Why Googling Symptoms Isn’t Enough
While the internet is packed with mental health resources, it is rarely nuanced or tailored to your child’s specific needs. Mental health and substance use disorders are multi-faceted, and a list of generalized symptoms or diagnoses can’t possibly capture the unique experiences of your child. What’s more, self-diagnosis can often lead to misinterpretations or even a delay in seeking appropriate care.
For example, a young adult experiencing withdrawal symptoms from substance use may also show signs of anxiety or depression, which might easily be misinterpreted as a standalone mental health issue. Without professional evaluation, the full scope of their challenges remains hidden, making it harder to find effective treatment. Relying on an internet search rather than a clinical evaluation can lead to confusion, frustration, and potential harm.
Steps to Take Instead of Googling
If you’re concerned about your child’s co-occurring issues, there are more effective ways to get the answers and support you need:
1. Schedule a Comprehensive Assessment
The first step in any treatment process is a thorough evaluation. This comprehensive evaluation allows clinicians to look at both the mental health and substance use issues, ensuring that your child receives a diagnosis that captures the complexity of their needs.
Assessments typically include:
- Clinical interviews
- Psychological testing
- Substance use history
- Family history of mental health or addiction issues
This structured approach is far more effective than trying to piece together a diagnosis based on symptoms you find online.
2. Consult with Experts in Dual-Diagnosis
Dual-diagnosis treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. The care plan for your young adult needs to be as unique as they are. That’s why it’s important to consult with clinicians who specialize in treating co-occurring disorders. Momentum Recovery’s team includes professionals who understand how mental health and substance use disorders interact and are trained to develop customized treatment plans that address both issues simultaneously.
By working with a team of experienced clinicians, you’ll get a clearer picture of what’s happening with your child and a roadmap for how to move forward. This expert guidance is invaluable and eliminates the guesswork that comes with Googling symptoms.
3. Consider In-Depth Treatment Programs
Once the assessment and consultation are complete, the next step is to consider the type of treatment your child needs. At Momentum Recovery, we offer a range of evidence-based treatment programs specifically designed for young adults. These programs combine clinical therapies with holistic approaches that address the whole person—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Our treatment options include:
- Individual & Group Therapy: Therapy provides a safe space for young people to explore the root causes of their mental health and substance abuse issues.
- Adventure Therapy: This unique approach blends outdoor experiences with therapeutic interventions, helping young adults build confidence, resilience, and healthier coping mechanisms.
- Family Therapy: We involve family members in the treatment process because recovery is not just about the individual but the whole family system.
- Life Skills Development: Preparing young adults to reintegrate into society with the tools they need for independence and stability.
4. Get Involved in the Recovery Process
Recovery is a family affair. At Momentum Recovery, we encourage family involvement from day one. Whether it’s through family therapy sessions or regular check-ins, being an active participant in your child’s treatment can strengthen their chances of long-term success.
Family members often feel overwhelmed by guilt, fear, or uncertainty when their child is struggling with a dual-diagnosis. That’s why our team offers resources and support for families to help them navigate their own emotional journeys while supporting their child’s recovery.
5. Trust the Process
Healing takes time, and it’s important to trust the professionals guiding your loved one through treatment. The internet often promises quick fixes or “miracle” solutions that seem too good to be true—and often, they are. Mental health and addiction recovery require patience, dedication, and ongoing support. The experienced team at Momentum Recovery is dedicated to providing that support every step of the way.
Let Professional Help Lead the Way
Instead of searching for answers online, start the process of mental health treatment by reaching out to professionals who can offer the personalized care your child needs. Momentum Recovery is here to guide your family through this challenging time, helping your young adult move from crisis to recovery—and ultimately, to a place of hope and healing.
For more information on Momentum Recovery’s programs, contact our team to schedule an assessment today.