If you’re ready to get professional help with your substance abuse recovery process, there are several different types of treatment that are worth looking into. One of those options is going through a dual diagnosis program.
Dual diagnosis is a specialized treatment that can help you heal in ways that other forms of recovery treatment may not be able to replicate. In this article, we’ll tell you everything that you need to know about what a dual diagnosis treatment program is so that you can decide whether it’s right for your recovery journey.
What is dual diagnosis treatment?
A dual diagnosis treatment program is a type of integrated treatment that addresses a patient’s addiction problems alongside their mental health issues. If you struggle with drug and alcohol addiction alongside a mental illness, getting help from a dual diagnosis treatment center that treats co-occurring disorders is recommended.
The idea behind dual diagnosis treatment plans is that substance abuse disorders and mental disorders often go hand-in-hand. These co-occurring disorders tend to feed one another, which creates a vicious cycle that can be tough to break without specialized treatment from a professional.
By addressing dual diagnoses, addiction treatment and mental health treatment are combined into a personalized treatment plan. In these programs, the substance abuse disorder and the mental health problem are addressed simultaneously, treating the root causes of both conditions.
An addiction treatment center that treats co-occurring disorders seeks to understand how your mental health issue and substance abuse problem interact with one another so that more efficient progress can be made towards your sobriety goals. This can pave the way for a more lasting recovery because not only will the substance use disorder but also the co-occurring disorders or underlying mental health concern.
Who is dual diagnosis treatment for?
A dual diagnosis program is designed for individuals suffering from common co-occurring disorders. If you struggle with substance abuse issues and mental health disorders, you can choose to enroll in dual diagnosis programs to improve your overall health.
This type of treatment is suitable for people who have struggled with both addiction and mental health disorders for a long time. Additionally, it can also be helpful for individuals who have not been able to overcome their addiction and mental health issues through traditional addiction treatment methods.
What mental health disorders are addressed by dual diagnosis treatment centers?
Dual diagnosis programs are specifically designed to treat co-occurring disorders. These are mental health disorders that commonly occur alongside substance abuse issues. Some of the most common mental health disorders include the following:
Depression
Depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest. It often co-occurs with addiction as individuals may turn to substances as a way to cope with their emotional pain.
Anxiety
Anxiety involves excessive worry and fear that can interfere with daily activities. Many people with anxiety disorders may use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate, leading to a cycle of dependence.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is marked by extreme mood swings, including manic highs and depressive lows. Those with bipolar disorder may misuse substances during manic episodes or to alleviate depressive symptoms.
Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline personality disorder is characterized by unstable moods, behavior, and relationships. Individuals may engage in substance use to manage their intense emotions and impulsivity, increasing the risk of addiction.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD occurs after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, leading to flashbacks and severe anxiety. Many with PTSD may resort to alcohol or drugs to numb their distressing symptoms, which can lead to addiction.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Individuals with schizophrenia may turn to drugs to escape their symptoms, making them more vulnerable to substance use disorders.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders involve unhealthy eating behaviors and can be driven by emotional distress or trauma. Individuals with these disorders may use drugs or alcohol as a means to cope with their body image issues, creating a dual struggle with addiction.
If you have one of these problems and are also dealing with drug or alcohol dependency, then dual diagnosis treatment in Lake Forest, Orange County, California, could be just the thing you need to recover.
What happens during dual diagnosis treatment?
Dual diagnosis treatment devotes an equal amount of time to your mental health problems as it does to your addiction issues. An expert treatment center offers individualized treatment plans to ensure that the therapeutic techniques will be suited to your unique situation.
There are many different treatment options like going in residential treatment, inpatient rehab, partial hospitalization program, and intensive outpatient program or outpatient rehab.
Severe cases often start with inpatient rehab to ensure your safety then outpatient programming will follow for ongoing support. However, medical professionals will evaluate your condition to gauge whether an intensive outpatient program will be more beneficial for your situation.
Much of your time in a dual diagnosis treatment program will involve working individually with a therapist. They’ll help you explore the connection between your addiction and your mental health.
During treatment, you’ll also likely get to participate in group therapy sessions and holistic healing activities designed to improve your mental wellness. Some activities that can be helpful for dual diagnosis disorders may include art therapy, outdoor therapy, nutritional coaching, spiritual support and training on healthy habits.
Best dual diagnosis treatment for addiction and mental health disorder in Lake Forest, Orange County
Do you think that dual diagnosis care is the right form of substance abuse support for your goals? If so, the easiest way to get started with it is by reaching out to an addiction specialist at Zoe Behavioral Health today.
Our integrated addiction and mental health programs will not only address your alcohol and drug use but also aim to improve your mental wellbeing. Reach out to us today, and we will assist you in verifying your insurance coverage.
Whether you’re just getting started with your recovery or you’ve been working at it for a while, our specialized treatment programs can help you live a fuller, more divine life.
