LOS ANGELES, March 3, 2024 – In recent years, there has been a notable increase in substance abuse cases across the nation, leading to a surge in demand for mental health treatment centers. According to a report by Grand View Research, this rise in substance abuse has raised concerns among health experts and policymakers, highlighting the urgent need for accessible and effective treatment options for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Erica Spiegelman, the Founder and Chief Operating Officer of New Spirit Recovery and best-selling author of the book, Rewired, discusses the growing need for integrated treatment, and how she has witnessed it evolve and grow since she entered the industry 14 years ago. 

According to an article in the National Library of Medicine integrated treatment involves treating multiple conditions and combining psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.

“90% of people in addiction have mental health issues such as anxiety and depression,” Spiegelman mentions about the nexus between addiction and mental health. 

According to recent data from the Results 2021 Survey on Drug Use and Health, the rates of substance abuse, including alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit substances, have been on the rise. Factors such as increased stress levels, social isolation, economic uncertainty, and easy access to addictive substances have contributed to this concerning trend.

Integrated treatment, which combines mental health and addiction services into a coordinated approach, is a best practice in addressing the complex needs of individuals with dual diagnoses according to the  National Library of Medicine. By integrating services such as therapy, medication management, substance abuse counseling, and psychiatric care, individuals receive comprehensive and tailored treatment that considers the interconnected nature of their conditions.

“Rewired is truly a program based on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual self-care as the foundation of people’s recovery. I first teach people the foundation, the basis I think helps people in recovery, the basis of self-care” says Spiegelman. The program was created in 2015 based on her book Rewired, to provide integrated treatment to her clients.

According to an article in the National Library of Medicine, as integrated treatment has become increasingly recognized within the healthcare community, efforts are being made to expand access to these services for individuals in need. By utilizing the National Survey on Drug Use, treatment centers, community organizations, and healthcare providers are working together to develop integrated programs that cater to the unique needs of individuals with dual diagnoses, offering a more comprehensive and supportive approach to their care. 

Spiegelman was invited to integrate her program into New Spirit Recovery, a dual-diagnosis residential treatment facility that aligns with the goals of her program. She expressed her belief that Rewired and other modalities for addiction or mental health should operate in harmony and complement each other, given the significant overlap between the two.

“I think Rewired and in general any modality for addiction or mental health needs to work congruently, side-by-side. There really is such an overlap, “ said Spiegelman.

The Treatment Improvement Protocol issued by SAMHSA provides programs with science-based guidance to deliver comprehensive treatment, encompassing counseling, therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and holistic interventions, to effectively address the multifaceted needs of individuals grappling with addiction and mental health challenges.

Spiegelman drew on her 14 years of industry experience to reflect on the development of treatment programs. She mentioned that there has been an increase in government funding for the VA and high-risk indigenous communities. She also emphasized social media and the role that it plays. 

“With social media, there is a lot more awareness, more platforms to normalize it, discuss it, and encourage people to get help,” said Spiegelman.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health is released annually to help healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations work together to improve access to quality mental health and substance abuse treatment services, particularly in underserved areas where resources may be limited.  Telehealth services, online therapy platforms, and support groups are also being utilized to reach individuals who may face barriers to accessing traditional in-person treatment.

“What was really cool about that experience [COVID] was telehealth. Reaching people in other states, the move especially around therapy and private practice, I literally now have clients everywhere,” Spiegelman reveals. 

One hard factor in people receiving the treatment that they need is the stigma surrounding substance abuse and mental health. 

“We should continue to utilize social media, for others to share their stories. To normalize it, we need to speak up about it. It’s affecting everyone, no matter who you are. I think it would be ignorant to not address these issues in our society.” Spiegelman said discussing that although the stigma is beginning to lift, it is still not enough. 

In the article, Ending Discrimination Against People with Mental and Substance Use Disorders: The Evidence for Stigma Change on the  National Library of Medicine, efforts are being made to reduce the stigma surrounding substance abuse and mental health treatment, encouraging more individuals to seek help and support without fear of judgment or discrimination. Public awareness campaigns, community outreach programs, and education initiatives are being implemented to promote mental health awareness and encourage early intervention for those in need.

As the conversation around mental health and substance abuse continues to evolve, it is crucial for policymakers, healthcare providers, and the community to collaborate and invest in comprehensive and accessible treatment options to support those affected by these challenges. 

Spiegelman emphasizes the importance of speaking up to promote the evolution of the industry and more programs like New Spirit Recovery to address the overriding need for integrated treatment.