Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must address both issues in order to recover completely. Some individuals take drugs to relieve symptoms of mental health disorders, and some individuals take drugs which then, in turn, brings about symptoms which are identical to mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Drug treatment professionals know how to differentiate between the two, and can work with clients to appropriately treat real mental health disorders in tandem with any other substance abuse treatment that is done with the individual. This has proven to be effective in keeping people with mental health issues off of drugs and mentally stable and healthy.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have unique treatment needs when receiving substance abuse rehabilitation. A specialized curriculum and treatment atmosphere which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is offered at certain drug and alcohol rehab programs across the nation which understand the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will experience during treatment. Gay and lesbians can achieve full rehabilitation and recovery just like any other individual in treatment, although it can be helpful for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive setting which doesn't judge them or alienate them due to their sexual preference.