Depression can feel overwhelming. Sadness and hopelessness can completely take over. You might feel numb or like you're just going through the motions for no reason. Drugs and alcohol might seem like an easy way to escape, and you're not alone if you think so. But using substances to cope can quickly turn into addiction. There's a brighter path ahead. Addiction and co-occurring depression treatment at Spring Grove Recovery in Colorado Springs can give you the tools you need to move forward.
Understanding co-occurring depression
Depression is a mood disorder. It affects your thoughts, energy, and motivation for daily living. When it occurs alongside substance use disorder, it's called a dual diagnosis or co-occurring condition, and it requires integrated treatment.
Types of depressive disorders
There are many different types of depression and depressive disorders. Getting the right diagnosis can make your treatment and recovery plan clearer. Some of the most common forms of depression include:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD): This is what most people think of when they hear the word "depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, lasting for at least two weeks.
- Persistent depressive disorder (Dysthymia): This is a chronic form of depression where low mood lasts for at least two years. While the symptoms may be less severe than major depression, they are long-lasting and can significantly impact your daily life.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): This type of depression is related to changes in seasons. It typically begins in the fall and continues through the winter months, when there is less natural sunlight, and improves during the spring and summer.
- Perinatal and postpartum depression: This occurs during pregnancy or after childbirth. It’s more intense and longer lasting than the "baby blues," involving severe mood swings, anxiety, and feelings of sadness that can make it challenging to care for yourself and your baby.
Signs of depression and addiction
It can be hard to spot depression if someone is using drugs or alcohol to cope. When they're around others, they might seem like the life of the party. Over time, though, they're more likely to isolate themselves. Other signs include:
- Ongoing feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Losing interest in once-loved activities
- Using substances to dull emotional pain or to “just feel normal”
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or social events
- Noticeable sleep changes, such as sleeping too much or too little
- Challenges with memory, focus, or making everyday decisions
Both depression and addiction share risk factors like past trauma, family history, and chronic stress. Left untreated, depression can increase the chances of relapse, so integrated treatment is the foundation for lasting healing.
The importance of integrated treatment
Addressing only substance use or only depression alone is less effective than integrated treatment. If someone isn't treated like a whole person, their emotional struggles can fuel substance use, making recovery more difficult.
Evidence shows that integrated treatment, where mental health and substance use are treated together, can significantly improve outcomes. That means the people are more likely to have better mental health, lower rates of relapse, and a more fulfilling life. At Spring Grove, we take an integrated approach supported by ongoing assessments and measurement-based care. This allows our team to adapt your care plan as symptoms change, and empowers you to see your own progress.
Hope and healing are always within reach at Spring Grove Recovery in Colorado Springs.
Our approach to co-occurring depression treatment
At Spring Grove Recovery, we encourage stability, build insight, and teach practical coping strategies so you can move forward with confidence. Treatment at our Colorado Springs center includes:
Accurate diagnosis:
Everybody begins with a complete psychiatric assessment and/or records review. We take time to fully understand your story, so we can give an accurate diagnosis of depression and any additional needs, such as anxiety or trauma.
Personalized care plans:
We work alongside you to create a detox and residential treatment plan that reflects your strengths and goals, one that promotes both addiction recovery and mental wellness.
Medication support:
For some, medication is a safe, helpful part of treatment. Our psychiatric team ensures all medications are managed safely and adjusted as needed.
Progress tracking:
With regular check-ins and evidence-based assessments, we monitor your progress and tailor your plan to what works best for you.
Depression Screenings Support Your Journey
Your initial assessment can be intimidating, but there's nothing to worry about. We'll take time to listen to your story and get to know you better rather than judge you. We'll also use tools like the patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) to better understand your symptoms when you first start treatment. Our team can use these tests again as you continue to help us clearly track your healing over time and ensure that treatment stays effective.
What to expect in depression treatment at Spring Grove Recovery
While you’re in treatment at our Colorado Springs center, you’ll work with our compassionate team of licensed professionals—including psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, and case managers—dedicated to your recovery. And, leaving Spring Grove doesn’t mean losing support. We’ll create an aftercare plan that connects you with ongoing resources and support groups so you feel confident continuing your journey.
Building lasting skills for resilience
We use effective, evidence-based therapies to help you grow and become more resilient:
- Talk therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change negative thought patterns, while dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) provides tools for managing tough emotions and improving relationships.
- Relapse prevention and healthy living: You’ll learn to recognize triggers and build habits that support physical and mental wellness—like regular sleep, healthy eating, and mindfulness.
- Peer support: Group therapy connects you with others on the same path, reducing loneliness and building a sense of community.
Our standards and values
Spring Grove Recovery is licensed by the state of Colorado and accredited by The Joint Commission, which reflects our dedication to quality, safety, and compassionate care. Our team specializes in complex dual diagnosis treatment with a commitment to dignity and respect for every person who walks through our doors.
Renew your life in the Rockies
Managing depression and breaking free from addiction is possible, and it's easier with compassionate, integrated care that honors your unique story. At Spring Grove Recovery, we’ll be walking beside you every step of the way.
Whether you’re ready to begin or are just reaching out for more information, our admissions team is available 24/7. Contact Spring Grove Recovery and let’s discover your path forward, together.
Frequently asked questions
Treatment length varies for everyone, and your plan is shaped by your needs and progress. Most Spring Grove Recovery clients are in residential treatment for about 30 days.
Most people have improved mood, increased stability in recovery, strengthened relationships, and a higher quality of life. We want to empower you with the skills and support you need for positive, long-term change.
Yes, medication is a safe, effective part of depression treatment for many. When prescribed and closely monitored by our experienced medical team, antidepressants may be a valuable part of your plan, too, supporting your mood without interfering with your recovery.
Peer support and group therapy reduce feelings of isolation and foster belonging. Sharing your experiences with others who genuinely understand can be a vital source of motivation and hope on the healing journey.
