Mental health or addiction questions may come to mind when looking for treatment. Are you going to feel seen? Will you be able to express your views on certain topics?
You may want to incorporate aspects of your background, religion, and family life into your treatment.
Co-occurring disorders treatment can address mental health and substance use concerns together. But your sense of self can play a role as well.
What you’ll learn:
- Your Culture, Your Care
- When Mental Health and Substance Use Overlap
- Faith on Your Terms
- Family Support and Your Privacy
- Choosing Care That Fits Your Life
Your Culture, Your Care
Your culture can impact how you identify with a mental health issue, drug and alcohol abuse, and who you feel comfortable talking to.
Maybe there was never any talk of mental illness or addiction in your home. You may not want to share that information with your community or family.
How do you express your emotions? Maybe you don’t consider yourself depressed but instead tired, anxious, or unhappy. There is no harm in describing your issues in this way and seeking help. Describe any changes to your everyday routine such as sleeping, working, or interacting with others.
There could be ways to integrate your culture into treatment as well.
No matter what your identity may be, there are many ways to view that identity. Being Jewish could mean praying, keeping certain customs, spending time with the community, or a combination of all three. It can be as simple or complicated as you want it to be.
If you’re researching Jewish rehab in Horsham you can ask if outpatient services can accommodate Shabbat, holidays, and other restrictions you may have. Keep in mind that not all programs can provide for this, so discuss your needs before enrolling.
There is no need to disclose everything right away. Simply state what you’re comfortable with or what could prevent you from attending sessions. Something like, “I practice my religion and would like to know if we can discuss this.”
When Mental Health and Substance Use Overlap
If you suffer from symptoms of anxiety, depression, or trauma while abusing alcohol or drugs you may have co-occurring disorders. Substances may seem to ease distress at first, but they can also affect sleep, relationships, and mood.
This does not always mean you have two separate disorders. An evaluation can determine what’s best for you.
You may want to jot down some of your symptoms and how often you use substances. What do you typically do after using? You don’t have to memorize everything. Also mention if you have concerns about not using alcohol or drugs. Some withdrawals can be dangerous and it’s important to find a level of care that is safe for you.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 18.5 million adults in the United States had a mental illness and substance use disorder in 2025. The survey cannot establish whether both conditions were present at the same moment.
Treatment for both disorders could include talk therapy, medications, managing urges, and learning how to deal with stressors in your life.
Always bring up both issues when talking to a provider. Maybe you’re in treatment for addiction, but continue to feel sad. Let them know. Or you may be getting mental health treatment and are concerned about drinking. Mention that as well.
If you are seeing multiple providers, ask who will be coordinating your care.
Faith on Your Terms
Your religion may help you in similar ways to your culture. Having time to pray or go to worship can make you feel closer to God.
Or maybe you want to keep your religion out of your treatment. That’s perfectly fine too.
You may feel guilty about your mental illness or addiction. If you believe you can get through anything if you have faith, it can be discouraging to know that isn’t the case for you. Remember that your mental illness is not a sin or wrongdoing. You can receive help and still maintain your faith. Talk about any feelings of shame you may have, but your religion does not have to be at the forefront of your treatment.
How much you want to include your religion is up to you. You can continue practicing your rituals and speak to a clergy member outside of treatment. You may also want to schedule treatment around holy days.
If treatment offers faith based support, ask if it’s optional.
Religion can be beneficial, but not a replacement for treatment. Keep your values in mind, but allow your body and assessment to dictate what you need.
“I want you to be mindful of my faith, but I’d like to choose my level of involvement.” You can always decide to add more religion to your treatment later on.
Family Support and Your Privacy
Someone can help you to and from appointments or reach out if you’re having a bad day. They don’t have to know everything about your situation.
Whatever makes you feel comfortable receiving help.
Try setting one boundary at a time with loved ones. Have them reach out to you after your appointments, but you don’t have to answer any questions. If you don’t have a family member that you’re close to, you can find someone else you trust to help you. Everyone’s support system will be different.
Maybe you’re not ready to inform your family of your mental illness or substance abuse. You can speak about your concerns with a provider during treatment.
Ask what is confidential and what isn’t, and decide how much you want your family involved. Speak with your provider about these topics, as there are some circumstances where confidentiality can be broken.
You can have family involved if that’s what you’re comfortable with. Just know what you want them to do for you. You can choose a family session, attend appointments alone, or ask relatives for practical help without sharing your diagnosis.
You can begin your treatment journey before working through things with family.
Choosing Care That Fits Your Life
Just because a facility’s website is welcoming, that doesn’t mean it will work for you. Ask questions about their process.
You may be talking to someone from admissions before you meet anyone in treatment. This is a good time to learn about their services and not stress about giving the “right” answer. Jot down what they have to say and take notes when you leave.
Some things to ask when finding treatment for co-occurring disorders:
- Do they evaluate for both conditions? How will they assess your mental illness and substance abuse?
- What type of care will I need? Ask how they can determine what level of care you may need.
- Can I speak about my cultural needs? Tell them what you may want to incorporate and see what they can offer.
- How can I keep things private? Ask about confidentiality and how to involve your family.
- What are my next steps? Learn about what happens after you complete your initial treatment.
Pay attention to how they respond to your questions. Do they explain any limitations they may have? Can you feel yourself being truthful?
Check insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs, travel distance, and required appointment times. Make sure the plan will work for your lifestyle. Ask how they will continue to help you, who will be treating you, and what if your needs change. Never be afraid to ask them to explain a treatment term you don’t understand.
Find a program that will allow you to be open about your needs. Remember you can ask to have more time to make your decision.
Moving Forward With Your Whole Self
Remember your background and beliefs when finding care for you. They should not define who you are or limit your treatment options.
After your evaluation, ask questions and start on your journey to recovery while allowing room for what makes your life fulfilling. Your first conversation doesn’t have to cover everything, it just needs to lead you in the right direction.
The owners and authors of Cinnamon Hollow are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
