Dual diagnosis treatment is when someone is treated for addiction at the same time they are treated for an addiction. This is in contrast to the historical norm, called sequential treatment. That method focused on tackling mental health and addiction separately, waiting until one was adequately addressed before attempting to treat the other. Call BoardPrep Recovery Center® at 866.796.4720 to learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment center and how it can benefit you or someone you love.
Mental Health and Addiction
Mental health disorders and addictions are incredibly common for people to experience at the same time. Research has found as many as half of the people in the United States who suffer from a mental health disorder will acquire an addiction at some point and vice versa. Some of the most common overlaps are between addiction and anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. High occurrence rates also appear with depression, bipolar disorder, and more.
No matter the exact combination, it is unfortunate that having one issue makes it increasingly likely for a person to contract the other. This is especially true in young adulthood, as that is the life stage when the onset of mental illness is the most likely. It is also a time of life that generally involves higher rates of and exposure to drug use.
Three main causes for why mental health and addiction so often run together are:
- Mental health disorders result in attempts to self-medicate using drugs or alcohol.
- Drugs and alcohol can at times trigger an underlying predisposition for mental health disorders.
- Symptoms of drug usage can create a vicious spiral with symptoms from a mental health disorder that works to trap the sufferer.
The Importance of Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Due to the myriad connections between mental health and addiction, the comprehensive nature of dual diagnosis treatment offers the best chance at healing and recovery. Dual diagnosis treatment is essential for recovery for these main reasons:
- It works to identify the root cause of substance abuse.
- Treatment can provide the client insight into the relationship between substance abuse and their mental health.
- It builds coping skills and strategies necessary to avoid relapse.
Dual diagnosis treatment plans are integrated and holistic. They go beyond treating symptoms to tackle the underlying reasons someone developed a mental health disorder or the behavioral problems that led to addiction in the first place. It may appear more difficult to address both a mental health disorder and an addiction at the same time. But failing to address one of them leaves a person more open to developing future issues.
Treating Co-Occurring Disorders
Dual diagnosis treatment often happens at a rehab center. Tackling both issues simultaneously requires a level of care and attention that makes inpatient treatment preferable. Rehab involves an initial detox alongside a host of ongoing, wrap-around resources and support.
Treating co-occurring disorders involves multiple kinds of therapy, with the type and duration tailored to an individual’s needs. A therapy called motivational interviewing can help support someone in changing their addictive behaviors. Furthermore, a client might engage in cognitive-behavioral therapy. This treatment works to alter the underlying thought patterns influencing both someone’s mental health and their addiction.
Learn More at BoardPrep Recovery Center® Today
Breaking the cycle of mental health and addiction is not easy. BoardPrep Recovery Center® offers dual diagnosis treatment in Florida. We will find the unique combination of holistic practices that will put you on a path to sobriety and positive mental health. Contact us at 866.796.4720 to find out how our dual diagnosis treatment programs can support you. A better future is waiting.
