Loss of a loved one at any age is a difficult situation, and coping with the grief that accompanies that loss is difficult. For those without a proper support group, or who lack the necessary experience, refuge and solace are often soufht in drugs and/or alcohol. When treatment begins, many times grief is either overlooked or it is discounted as a factor in substance abuse. A reputable Loss and Grief Drug Treatment Center recognizes grief as a co-occurring disorder that must be addressed before recovery and rehabilitation from addiction can begin.

The symptoms of loss and grief as a co-occurring disorder include

• The inability to accept the death of a loved one
• Anger and bitterness
• Feeling of guilt or unjustified placing of blame on oneself
• Detachment
• Refusal or inability to move on
• Withdrawal
• Depression

and other emotions tied directly to the loss. While all of these are normal reactions, when the one grieving turns to drugs or alcohol to cope with the loss and the accompanying emotions, a downward spiral begins from which extrication is exceptionally difficult.

A loss and grief drug treatment center recognizes the need to help the individual cope with his or her loss in order to make recovery and rehabilitation possible. Coping skills must be taught and incorporated into skills needed for daily living or the person suffering will inevitably relapse into their world of addiction.

During the admissions processes, the mental healthcare professionals should ask questions about this issue, and if answers are in the affirmative, use the information to structure a therapeutic program to teach the client how to live with grief and loss, while also addressing the problems associated with drug and alcohol addiction. By approaching both situations as not only co-occurring, but also co-supporting, recovery chances are improved, and the client has a greater probability of regaining control of his or her life.