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Co-occurring disorders

Bipolar disorder and addiction, stabilized together.

Living with bipolar disorder can feel like navigating constant, unpredictable shifts. When addiction enters the picture, that instability can grow. We offer compassionate, integrated care grounded in dignity and respect, so you can reclaim your life with purpose.

What it is

More than mood swings.

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition defined by significant shifts in mood, energy, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. These aren't ordinary mood swings — they're intense emotional states that can last for days or weeks, impacting relationships, work, and your sense of self. An accurate diagnosis is crucial, since symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for depression or anxiety, or masked by substance use.

Understanding the types

A correct diagnosis is the first step.

Bipolar I disorder

Defined by at least one manic episode — extremely elevated or irritable mood. People with bipolar I often also experience depressive and hypomanic episodes.

Bipolar II disorder

A pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, without the full manic episodes seen in bipolar I.

Cyclothymic disorder

Numerous periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting at least two years, without meeting full criteria for either episode type.

The connection to addiction

Self-medicating the highs and lows.

The impulsivity and emotional intensity of mood episodes can lead people with bipolar disorder to self-medicate — stimulants to fight depression, or alcohol to calm racing thoughts during mania. Over time, this coping mechanism can evolve into a co-occurring addiction, where each condition worsens the other. Recognizing these interconnected patterns is a critical step toward meaningful, sustainable recovery.

Therapies and skills

Evidence-based tools for lasting stability.

At Oak Grove Recovery, we provide integrated care that treats both bipolar disorder and addiction at the same time — because treating one while ignoring the other often leads to relapse.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) & dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

Talk therapies that help you identify and change the thought and behavior patterns that fuel mood episodes and substance use, and build skills for managing difficult emotions.

Relapse prevention and education

Understanding your personal triggers and developing a concrete plan for navigating them, including recognizing early warning signs of a mood episode or craving.

Building healthy habits

Restorative routines around sleep, nutrition, exercise, and medication adherence.

Peer and group support

Sharing your experience with others who have walked a similar path, reducing isolation and building hope.

What to expect

A plan that evolves as you heal.

Your journey starts with a comprehensive behavioral-health and medical assessment, then moves from medical detox through residential care with clear, measurable steps toward wellness. How long each stage lasts is individualized to your progress. Our counselors, nurses, medical providers, and case managers work together with deep empathy — and we accept Ohio Medicaid and a wide range of other plans.

Common questions

Bipolar disorder and addiction, answered.

What is the main difference between bipolar I and bipolar II?
Bipolar I is diagnosed after at least one full manic episode. Bipolar II is characterized by a pattern of less intense hypomanic episodes and major depressive episodes, without a full manic episode. Both can significantly impact your life, and both can benefit from integrated care.
How long does treatment for co-occurring disorders last?
Length of treatment is personalized. We tailor the timeline to your individual progress and recovery goals, supporting you for as long as you need.
Can bipolar disorder exist with other mental health conditions?
Yes — it's common for people with bipolar disorder to also experience anxiety disorders, PTSD, or ADHD. Our comprehensive assessments are designed to identify all co-occurring issues so we can treat them together.
What if I feel uncertain about stopping substance use?
That's completely normal. Our clinicians use motivational interviewing, a respectful and non-judgmental approach, to help you explore your own motivations for change at your own pace.
Reach out today

Support, with dignity and respect.

Taking the first step toward healing can feel overwhelming. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to help you build a path toward a healthier future.