The Root Cause Approach to Mental Health & Addiction: Why Treating Underlying Mental Health Issues is Essential for Lasting Recovery
- The Summit
- Sep 3
- 3 min read
Understanding Addiction and Mental Health: The Connection
Addiction is a complex, chronic condition that affects over one in six people aged 12 and older in the U.S., according to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Yet these numbers only tell part of the story. Millions more are impacted indirectly—through family, friends, and communities. Substance use often co-occurs with mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder, creating a challenging cycle where one condition exacerbates the other.
At The Summit Sanctuary, we recognize that true recovery begins at the root, addressing the underlying mental health issues driving substance use rather than simply managing symptoms. This philosophy sets us apart as one of the nation’s few mental-health primary facilities that treats addiction as a consequence of deeper psychological and neurological challenges.
What Is the Root Cause Approach?
The root cause approach involves identifying and treating the fundamental mental health factors that lead to addiction. Trauma, childhood adversity, chronic stress, and untreated mental health conditions often create coping mechanisms that manifest as substance use or other addictive behaviors.
By addressing these core issues directly, The Summit Sanctuary helps clients break the cycle of addiction and achieve long-term recovery. Unlike traditional programs that focus solely on detoxification or short-term sobriety, we integrate mental health and addiction treatment from day one, creating a holistic and personalized recovery plan.
Types of Therapy Offered at The Summit Sanctuary
Our multidisciplinary team employs evidence-based therapies tailored to each client’s needs, blending clinical precision with holistic wellness. Some of our key therapies include:
CBT helps clients identify distorted thinking patterns and replace them with healthier thought processes. By recognizing triggers and developing practical coping strategies, clients can manage cravings and prevent relapse.
DBT focuses on emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. It equips clients with tools to manage intense emotions and build healthier relationships, which are often disrupted by addiction.
EMDR is a cutting-edge therapy that allows clients to safely process traumatic memories. This technique reduces the emotional intensity of trauma, helping individuals break free from behaviors rooted in past experiences.
MI is a client-centered approach that enhances motivation and commitment to change. It empowers clients to explore ambivalence and develop their own strategies for recovery.
Addiction affects entire households. Family therapy helps repair relationships, establish healthy boundaries, and address systemic patterns that may perpetuate substance use.
6. Experiential and Holistic Therapies
From yoga and mindfulness practices to equine-assisted therapy, these approaches support emotional healing, reduce stress, and reconnect clients with their physical and mental well-being.
Why Treating Mental Health Leads to Lasting Recovery in a Root Cause Approach
Addressing only the addiction without the underlying mental health issues is like treating symptoms without understanding the disease. Research shows that nearly half of adults with a substance use disorder also have a co-occurring mental health condition. Without integrated care, relapse is common.
By combining mental health treatment with addiction therapy, clients develop:
Self-awareness: Understanding triggers and behaviors.
Coping strategies: Healthy ways to manage stress and cravings.
Emotional resilience: Tools to navigate life without relying on substances.
Supportive relationships: Rebuilt trust and communication with loved ones.
A Holistic, Multidisciplinary Approach
At The Summit Sanctuary, our team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, therapists, and holistic wellness specialists. This multidisciplinary model ensures that every aspect of a client’s mental, emotional, and physical health is addressed.
Treatment plans are personalized, flexible, and evidence-based, integrating therapy, medication management, wellness practices, and continuous support. This approach not only reduces relapse risk but also empowers clients to thrive in life beyond recovery.
Taking the First Step Toward Root-Cause Recovery
Recovery begins when individuals confront the mental health challenges underlying their addiction. At The Summit Sanctuary, we guide clients through a safe, structured, and supportive process that addresses both mental health and substance use.
If you or a loved one are ready to explore a root-cause approach to addiction recovery, contact The Summit Sanctuary today to learn more about our holistic, evidence-based programs and therapy options.
Ready to break the cycle and achieve lasting recovery? Explore how the root cause approach to mental health and addiction can transform your journey
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