Struggling With Mental Health?
Here’s What You Need to Know

Discover the connection between mental health, well-being, and addiction and how Longview Recovery supports personalized, compassionate care.

Table of Contents

What Is Mental Health?

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical well-being.

Unfortunately, many people struggle in silence, unsure of where to turn. More than 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience a mental health condition each year, yet over 50% of those affected don’t receive treatment.1

Too often, untreated mental health symptoms can often contribute to or exacerbate substance misuse—leading to a vicious cycle that can be hard to break without the right support.

Despite how common these challenges are, misconceptions about mental health conditions still exist, and stigma remains a major barrier to care.2

At Longview Recovery, we’re committed to overcoming those barriers and creating a happier, healthier community—one person at a time.

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Longview Recovery’s Commitment to Healing

Longview Recovery is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective treatment for individuals facing substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. We understand the complexities of these conditions and offer personalized, evidence-based care to support lasting recovery.

Our New Mexico team is committed to helping individuals rebuild their lives, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and achieve sustainable well-being.
By prioritizing individualized care and fostering a supportive environment, we help individuals reclaim their lives and embrace a brighter future.

Connection Between Mental and Physical Health

Mental and physical health are deeply connected, each influencing the other in ways that can improve or worsen overall well-being.
When mental health conditions go untreated, they can take a toll on the body, just as chronic physical illnesses can contribute to emotional distress.
For example, prolonged stress and anxiety can lead to:
  • Increased inflammation: Chronic stress triggers the body’s inflammatory response, which has been linked to conditions like heart disease and autoimmune disorders.
  • Weakened immune function: High levels of stress hormones can make the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses.
  • Digestive issues: Mental health conditions often contribute to gastrointestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or appetite changes.

Co-Occurring Interactions

At the same time, poor physical health can negatively affect mental well-being. Chronic pain, sleep disorders, and conditions like diabetes or heart disease can lead to feelings of depression, frustration, and isolation.

We’re here to remind you: Taking care of both mental and physical health is essential for a balanced life. Self-care is never selfish—it’s vital.

Understanding Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions can influence emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. While each condition is unique, many share overlapping symptoms, making proper diagnosis and treatment essential.

Some of the most common mental health disorders that individuals experience include:
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Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting over 40 million adults in the U.S. each year.3
They cause excessive fear and worry, and they are often accompanied by other physical symptoms as well, such as:
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Restlessness or difficulty sleeping
  • Shortness of breath
  • Panic attacks

A Closer Look at Anxiety Disorders

Depression

Depression affects daily life by causing persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Individuals with depression often experience low energy and fatigue, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, and changes in sleep and appetite.

Living With Depression

PTSD and Trauma-Related Conditions

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after an individual experiences severe trauma, such as combat, abuse, or accidents. It can cause:

  • Flashbacks and nightmares
  • Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
  • Emotional numbness and detachment
  • Avoidance of people, places, or situations that trigger memories

What is PTSD?

Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorder (SUD) frequently coexists with mental health conditions, as many people turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with:4

  • Anxiety and excessive stress
  • Depressive symptoms or emotional pain
  • Unresolved trauma and PTSD symptoms
While substances may provide temporary relief, they often worsen mental health over time. Treating both conditions together is essential for long-term recovery.

Personality Disorders and Other Complex Challenges

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Personality disorders impact thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Conditions like borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder may lead to:
  • Intense mood swings and impulsive behaviors
  • Difficulty maintaining stable relationships
  • Extreme sensitivity to criticism or abandonment
  • Unstable self-image or identity struggles
Other complex conditions, such as schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), require specialized care to help individuals manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.

Impact of Untreated Mental Health Challenges

Ignoring mental health concerns doesn’t make them go away—in fact, the result is often the opposite.

Without proper care, symptoms often worsen, affecting every aspect of life. From strained relationships to increased health risks, untreated mental health conditions can have serious consequences.

Effects on Relationships, Work, and Daily Life

Mental health challenges can make it difficult to function day-to-day. They often impact:
  • Personal relationships: Increased conflict, emotional distance, or difficulty expressing feelings can strain friendships and family bonds.
  • Work and productivity: Difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and absenteeism may lead to job loss or career setbacks.
  • Daily responsibilities: Managing finances, household tasks, and self-care can become overwhelming, causing instability in life.
These struggles can create a cycle of frustration and isolation, making it even harder to seek support.

Increased Risk of SUD and Physical Health Issues

Mental health conditions and physical health are deeply connected. When left untreated, conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD can contribute to:
  • Substance use: Many people self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to escape emotional distress, increasing the risk of addiction.
  • Chronic illnesses: Mental health issues can raise the likelihood of high blood pressure, heart disease, and weakened immune function.
  • Sleep disturbances: Insomnia and irregular sleep patterns can worsen mood, memory, and decision-making.
  • Poor lifestyle choices: Lack of motivation can lead to unhealthy eating habits, inactivity, and neglecting medical care.
Addressing mental health early can help prevent these complications and improve overall well-being.
Breaking these barriers starts with education and open conversations. At Longview Recovery, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care, ensuring you get the support you need in a safe, welcoming environment.

Evidence-Based Mental Health Treatments

Effective mental healthcare goes beyond symptom relief – it focuses on long-term healing and resilience. At Longview Recovery, we use a combination of evidence-based and holistic approaches to create individualized treatment plans that meet each person’s unique needs.
Some of our therapy options include:

CBT and DBT

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are two widely used approaches that help individuals develop healthier thought patterns and emotional regulation skills.
CBT helps individuals recognize and challenge unhelpful thoughts, making it especially effective for anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Furthermore, DBT focuses on emotional regulation and distress tolerance. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mood instability or self-destructive behaviors.

EMDR

For those dealing with past trauma, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can be a powerful tool. EMDR uses guided eye movements to help the brain process distressing memories, reducing the emotional intensity of traumatic experiences.

MI

Motivational interviewing (MI) is another valuable approach, particularly for those struggling with substance use or resistance to change. This counseling method helps individuals find internal motivation for recovery rather than feeling pressured by external forces.

Medication and Psychiatric Care

For some, medication is an important part of treatment. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is especially useful for individuals with substance use disorders, as it helps manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Other psychiatric medications may support those dealing with depression, anxiety, or mood disorders by stabilizing brain chemistry.
At Longview Recovery, our team ensures that medication is carefully tailored to each individual’s needs. We combine medication with therapy and lifestyle changes to create a well-rounded approach to mental wellness.

The Role of Experiential and Holistic Therapies

Mental health isn’t just about thoughts and emotions – it’s connected to experiences, movement, and environment. That’s why experiential therapy often plays a role in recovery.
This includes activities like:
  • Outdoor therapy and nature immersion
  • Art, music, or movement-based therapies
  • Mindfulness and meditation practices, and more
These therapies help individuals process emotions in nonverbal ways and develop new coping strategies.

Our staff also believe in the healing power of holistic approaches, such as yoga, breathwork, and nutrition-focused care. These practices support both mental and physical well-being, creating a foundation for long-term stability.

Trauma-Informed Care for Deeper Healing

Many mental health struggles stem from unresolved trauma. A trauma-informed approach ensures that care is sensitive to past experiences, focusing on safety, empowerment, and trust.
This means treatment providers:5
  • Recognize how trauma affects emotions, behaviors, and relationships
  • Avoid triggering retraumatization during therapy
  • Offer personalized, compassionate support for processing difficult experiences
We understand that true healing goes beyond symptom management – it involves creating a life that feels meaningful, stable, and fulfilling. By integrating these therapies, we ensure a well-rounded, individualized path to recovery.
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Role of Detox and Rehabilitation in Mental Health Treatment

When both mental health and substance use disorders exist together, known as a dual diagnosis, treatment must address both issues to support lasting recovery.
Detox and rehabilitation play a crucial role in helping individuals regain stability and take the next steps toward better mental health.

How Substance Use Impacts Mental Health Recovery

Substance use can worsen mental health conditions by:6
  • Increasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and mood instability
  • Interfering with medication effectiveness and therapy progress
  • Contributing to impulsive behaviors and emotional distress
  • Disrupting sleep, energy levels, and overall brain function
Many people turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with trauma or emotional pain. However, substance use often leads to a cycle that makes recovery more difficult.
Breaking this cycle starts with detox and comprehensive mental healthcare.

Importance of Medical Detox for Dual Diagnosis Cases

For individuals facing both mental health challenges and substance use disorders, medical detox is often the first critical step.

Detox helps clear substances from the body in a safe, controlled environment while also managing mental well-being symptoms. Without proper medical supervision, withdrawal can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening.
At Longview Recovery, we provide medical and sub-acute detox services to ensure individuals go through this process safely.
Our detox programs offer:
  • 24/7 medical supervision to monitor withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
  • Medication-assisted treatment to ease discomfort and reduce cravings.
  • Emotional and psychological support to help stabilize mental health symptoms during withdrawal.
  • A structured transition into ongoing treatment to prevent relapse and encourage long-term recovery.
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Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment Options for Mental Health

Once detox is complete, the next step is choosing the right treatment setting.
The decision between inpatient and outpatient care depends on the severity of mental health symptoms, substance use history, and personal circumstances.

Inpatient Treatment: Comprehensive, Immersive Care

For those who need a highly structured, intensive level of care, inpatient treatment provides a safe space to focus entirely on recovery.

At Longview Recovery, our inpatient program offers:
  • 24/7 medical and emotional support to manage symptoms in a stable environment.
  • Daily individual and group therapy to address underlying issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use.
  • A structured routine that helps individuals build healthy habits and coping strategies.
  • A serene, wilderness-inspired setting that encourages outdoor activity and experiential therapies.
Inpatient care is especially beneficial for individuals who struggle with severe mental health symptoms, such as suicidal thoughts, intense anxiety, or mood instability.

Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP)

Not everyone requires around-the-clock care. For those who are ready for more independence while still needing structured treatment, Longview Recovery offers the following programs as part of our care options:
  • Partial Hospitalization Program: This provides full-day treatment several days a week, offering intensive therapy while allowing individuals to return home or to a supportive sober living environment in the evenings.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program: This offers flexible treatment options for those transitioning back into work, school, or daily life. It includes several hours of therapy per week while allowing for more autonomy.
These outpatient options work well for individuals who have completed inpatient treatment and need continued support or are in stable recovery but want to reinforce their coping skills.
By offering a full range of care options, we ensure that each individual receives the right level of support at the right time. Our flexible, open-minded approach allows us to create treatment plans that truly fit each person’s journey.

Longview Recovery’s Approach to Mental Healthcare

At Longview Recovery, we recognize that no two individuals experience co-occurring mental health challenges in the same way. That’s why we focus on personalized, adaptable treatment plans that address each person’s unique circumstances.
Our approach balances proven therapeutic methods with holistic wellness practices, ensuring a well-rounded path to recovery.

Customized Treatment Plans for Lasting Results

Mental health recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. Our team takes time to understand each individual’s:
  • Personal history and mental well-being challenges
  • Strengths and coping mechanisms
  • Treatment preferences and goals
  • Family dynamics and support systems
With this information, we design a flexible treatment plan that evolves as progress is made. Whether someone benefits more from structured therapy, experiential approaches, or a mix of both, we adjust care to meet their needs at every stage of recovery.

Blending Evidence-Based and Holistic Therapies

A successful treatment experience involves both clinical expertise and whole-person healing. Longview Recovery integrates a range of therapies to address the mind, body, and emotions, such as:
  • Traditional therapies help individuals develop healthier thought patterns and coping skills.
  • Medication management is available when needed to stabilize symptoms and support recovery.
  • Holistic practices encourage relaxation and self-awareness.
  • Experiential therapies provide alternative ways to process emotions.
This balanced approach ensures that individuals receive scientifically backed treatments while also benefiting from holistic healing strategies that promote long-term well-being.

A Supportive, Judgment-Free Environment

Healing happens best in a setting where individuals feel safe, heard, and supported. At Longview Recovery, we foster a compassionate, welcoming space where people can openly discuss their struggles without fear of stigma.
We offer:
  • Skilled clinicians and support staff who provide guidance without judgment.
  • Peer connections in group therapy to help individuals feel less alone in their journey.
  • A calming, wilderness-inspired setting that promotes relaxation and emotional grounding.
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The Next Steps of Seeking Mental Health Treatment

Recognizing when to seek professional help is a critical step in prioritizing mental well-being. Many people hesitate, wondering if their struggles are “serious enough” to warrant treatment.

When Is It Time to Seek Professional Help?

Signs that it may be time to reach out for support include:

  • Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emotional numbness
  • Difficulty managing stress or overwhelming thoughts
  • Struggles with relationships, work, or maintaining daily responsibilities
  • Turning to substances or unhealthy coping mechanisms for relief
  • Feeling trapped in cycles of negative thinking, self-doubt, or self-destructive behavior
  • Experiencing trauma-related symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, or heightened anxiety
Seeking treatment doesn’t mean someone is weak – it means they are taking control of their well-being.

Start Your Treatment Journey at Longview Recovery

Taking the first step toward treatment can feel overwhelming, but Longview Recovery is here to make the process as simple and supportive as possible.
Here’s what to expect:
  1. Reach Out: Contact our team for a confidential conversation about your needs.
  2. Assessment: We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the best level of care, whether it’s detox, inpatient, PHP, or IOP.
  3. Personalized Plan: A treatment plan is created based on individual history, goals, and unique circumstances.
  4. Admission and First Steps: Once a plan is in place, we provide a welcoming environment where individuals can begin their recovery journey with compassionate support.
We know that seeking help can feel like a big step, but our team is here every step of the way to provide guidance, encouragement, and professional care.

Reclaim a Life You Love

At Longview Recovery, we believe everyone deserves support, respect, and a path to healing.

If you or a loved one is struggling, know that help is available – this is where your recovery journey begins. Get in touch with our team today to learn more about how we can help you with your co-occurring mental health or substance use disorder recovery.

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