The path of recovery can be rocky and challenging, especially when faced with the complexities of dual diagnosis. This explains an individual who grapples with substance abuse disorder and a mental health condition. Millions of people struggle with this disorder, and though you may be tempted to treat them separately, concurrently addressing them will lead to lasting recovery. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s 2021 survey disclosed that an estimated 9.2 million Americans have a co-occurring disorder.
A dual-diagnosis treatment program is usually recommended if you or a loved one has a co-occurring mental condition. But how does a dual diagnosis treatment work?
DetoxLA is a Los Angeles addiction treatment center that can help with dual diagnosis therapy. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
Understanding What Dual Diagnosis Means
Dual diagnosis is a simple term that depicts when a person suffers from a mental health condition and a substance addiction. Also known as co-occurring disorders, dual diagnosis makes it challenging for patients to live normally, as they must deal with the complexities of a mental issue and addiction.
Substance abuse and mental health disorders are tightly woven threads. People who abused substances are more likely to have a mental illness because addictive substances alter the human behavior over a long period. Someone who has abused cocaine or prescription drugs could develop schizophrenia or other mental disorders.
Similarly, people with an untreated mental health illness can develop substance use disorder. Individuals with an untreated mental illness often struggle to live with themselves. Therefore, they seek ways to cope with the symptoms. The obvious path is doing drugs. Not only will this worsen their mental illness, but they risk heavier substance abuse. Thus, they develop a substance use disorder. Mental health disorders and substance addiction are a vicious cycle that’s complicated to break without a mental health professional.
That’s why a dual diagnosis treatment program is recommended. It simultaneously addresses the symptoms of mental health problems and substance misuse. As mentioned, these disorders feed off each other, making it challenging to manage them separately. A dual diagnosis program is a unique solution that effectively deals with the complex nature of co-occurring disorders.
How Does a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program Work?
So, how does a dual diagnosis treatment program work? The treatment program for dual diagnosis works by following an approach for the desired result. This approach involves the following;
Thorough Assessment
Treatment begins with a comprehensive analysis of the individual’s behavior and substance misuse history. The medical professional forms the basis of his diagnosis and treatment plan based on the outcome of the examination.
Holistic Treatment
Individually treating mental illness and substance addiction will give room for one of them to grow stronger. A dual diagnosis program tackles both conditions and provides a unified approach to treating them concurrently. Depending on the individual’s needs, this approach may involve cognitive-behavioral therapy or group therapy.
Medication
Depending on the severity of the disorder, medications can be used. This usually happens during detoxification. The drugs are given to manage withdrawal symptoms. Medications could be mood stabilizers, antidepressants, or antipsychotic drugs.
Multi-Faceted Therapies
Sometimes, dual-diagnosis treatments include multiple therapies like art therapy, nutrition, and evidence-based treatment to combat the complex nature of co-occurring disorders. These therapies train individuals to cope with and manage triggers, thus minimizing the chances of the condition reinforcing.
Supportive Environment
A serene environment is fundamental to healing. Fortunately, many dual-diagnosis treatment programs offered by rehab centers like DetoxLA create a safe space where patients can recover and share their challenges. This helps the medical experts understand the treatment plan’s efficacy and make some modifications when necessary.
Long-Term Strategies and Aftercare
Recovery is a long journey; dual-diagnosis treatment programs don’t end after therapy or medications. The program continues to provide individuals with the tools needed for long-term recovery. This is what we call aftercare. Aftercare may include joining a support group like the 12-step and non-12-step groups. These groups surround you with a strong, supportive network and make you accountable for your decisions.
DetoxLA Offers Treatment for Dual Diagnosis Disorders
Dual-diagnosis treatment programs ease recovery from co-occurring disorders with their comprehensive and tailored plan. They help patients navigate the challenging path of mental health and substance addiction issues simultaneously, paving the way for a brighter future.
Remember that help is available to anyone battling with co-occurring disorders. Seeking treatment is the only way to reclaim your life and thrive. But first, where should you get treated? DetoxLA is the answer. This center has the resources and amenities to help you recover from co-occurring disorders. Boasting a team of specialists, DetoxLA makes you feel welcome while you recover at an unbelievable pace. Give us a call at 818.671.4765 today!