In the many states, mental illness and addiction are both common. Both need support and treatment to ensure that they can lead productive, healthy lives. A dual diagnosis of mental illness with addiction is statistically associated with higher rates of violent behavior and suicide. Sometimes, symptoms of mental illness are similar to the effects of substance abuse. Addiction can make a person unable to complete treatment for mental illness or adhere to an ongoing treatment plan.
Many people turn to alcohol and drugs for self-medicating, which can lead to mental health problems. People often get treated for substance abuse. Many people are not treated for their mental illness. It is not easy to find a dual diagnosis treatment center that can treat both mental and physical issues once they have been diagnosed. The facility staff should be skilled in both conditions and allow people to go at their own pace through the programs.
What Are Signs Of Dual Diagnosis
It can be difficult and time-consuming to diagnose co-occurring disorders. Sometimes, it can be very difficult for doctors to identify the co-occurring condition. The following are signs and symptoms of a dual diagnosis:
- Activities that require the use of substances should be enjoyed only
- Stress and other emotions can be managed by using substances
- After experiencing a traumatic event, it’s possible to begin using substances.
- History of mental illness in the family
- Self-isolation from Others
- Hidden behavior to hide substance abuse
- It is necessary to take more of the substance in order to achieve the same effects.
Many people who misuse substances suffer from mental illnesses. About half of addicts also suffer from common mental disorders like bipolar disorder (Anxiety), and depression.
Do You Require Addiction Treatment Or Mental Health Treatment?
It can be frustrating and demoralizing to try to manage a dual diagnosis for long periods of time. People suffer from symptoms for an average of 11 years before seeking treatment. Both conditions can have a negative impact on a person’s mental and physical health, and make it difficult to carry out daily activities. It can be difficult to identify if someone is in need of treatment for an addiction or mental condition.
Someone with a dual diagnosis may need to receive focused treatment for their substance use only. Untreated mental health symptoms could lead to relapse. A dual diagnosis patient may receive treatment for only their mental symptoms. Dual diagnosis treatment is complicated. It is crucial to seek treatment at a specialist center that is qualified to treat coexisting disorders.
Treatment Of Co-Occurring Disorders
Dual diagnosis patients may have difficulty finding the right combination of treatments to ensure their sobriety. For both mental and substance abuse problems, the person will have to go through medical detox and drug use disorder treatment. Additionally, they will be treated with evidence-based therapies for their mental illness. These treatments include medication and mental healthcare therapies.
For professionals to be able to see how the two issues impact each other, they need special skills. Many people are not receiving the treatment they deserve and need because of co-occurring issues with addiction and mental health. For relapse prevention and successful recovery, it is essential to recognize a dual diagnosis.
Learn More About Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Recovery Center offers support and care for those suffering from dual diagnoses. Programs include:
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Outpatient drug rehab center
- Sober living program
- Telehealth rehab program
- Medication-assisted treatment