Dual Diagnosis Care for Mental Health and Addiction

Addressing both mental health issues and substance abuse concurrently yields the most successful outcomes in dual diagnosis treatment. A dual diagnosis occurs when an individual is simultaneously grappling with a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Typically, these conditions are treated separately, but when they coexist, they are interconnected and can significantly affect each other.

For optimal results, individuals with a dual diagnosis should undergo treatment for both conditions at the same time. Dual diagnosis programs tackle each disorder individually while also considering the interplay between them. For instance, in dual diagnosis rehabilitation, the substance use disorder is addressed through detoxification and addiction treatment, while the individual also receives therapy for their mental health condition.

What Is Dual Diagnosis Care?

A dual diagnosis refers to the presence of one or more mental health disorders (such as anxiety, depression, or a personality disorder) alongside one or more substance use disorders (like alcohol or opioid abuse). This condition is also known as co-occurring disorders or comorbidity.

There are various approaches to dual diagnosis treatment, tailored to the specific combination of disorders an individual faces. These treatments typically aim to reduce psychiatric symptoms and decrease substance use. For example, certain cognitive behavioral therapies are designed to simultaneously treat post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. Common treatments for dual diagnosis include:

• Motivational Enhancement Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• 12-Step Programs
• Contingency Management
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Integrated Group Therapy
• Peer-Led Support Services
• Pharmacotherapy (medications for mental health conditions like depression)

The most crucial aspect of treating dual diagnosis is providing integrated care that addresses both the mental health and substance use disorders simultaneously.

Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis

Only a mental health professional can formally diagnose a mental health or substance use disorder. However, being aware of common dual diagnosis symptoms can help individuals identify when they might need professional help.

Symptoms of dual diagnosis mirror those of mental health and substance use disorders but occur within the same person. These symptoms include:

• Sudden changes in behavior
• Difficulty managing everyday tasks
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Poor performance or attendance at work or school
• Shifts in personality or mood
• Neglecting personal health and hygiene
• Engaging in risky activities
• Developing a high tolerance for substances
• Feeling the need to use substances to function normally
• Losing control over substance use
• Using substances in unsafe environments
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms

Prevalence of Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorders are quite prevalent. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that in 2021, approximately 19.4 million American adults were diagnosed with co-occurring disorders, which include any mental health condition and at least one substance use disorder. These disorders are most common among young adults aged 18–25. The most frequently co-occurring mental health disorders with substance use disorders include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Grief
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Eating Disorders
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar Disorder

Advantages of Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Treating only one disorder can reduce the effectiveness of treatment compared to addressing both conditions simultaneously. Comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment is vital for achieving the best outcomes for individuals with co-occurring disorders.

Dual diagnosis cases are often complex, requiring more intensive treatment than treating a single mental health disorder alone. Benefits of dual diagnosis treatment include:

• Receiving comprehensive care to overcome substance abuse
• Accessing therapy to manage mental health disorders
• Collaborating with therapists to understand the connection between disorders
• Addressing the underlying causes of addiction and mental health issues
• Learning strategies to cope with mental health conditions
• Identifying and avoiding triggers that may lead to relapse
• Developing a robust relapse prevention plan
• Enhancing motivation to engage in treatment

Risks of Self-Medication

Individuals with mental health issues might use substances to alleviate physical and psychological symptoms, a practice known as self-medication. This approach is hazardous as it can lead to substance addiction and exacerbate mental health problems. For example, someone might use alcohol to reduce depression symptoms, but once the alcohol wears off, their depression may worsen, creating a vicious cycle that fosters addiction.

Additional dangers of self-medication include:

• Delaying the diagnosis of an underlying mental health disorder
• Intensifying symptoms when not using the substance
• Developing tolerance, leading to increased substance use
• Escalating dependency on the substance

Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Suitable for Me?

Dual diagnosis treatment is essential for anyone diagnosed with both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Addressing both issues concurrently is crucial rather than focusing on just one condition.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, dual diagnosis treatment is appropriate. To confirm, you can:

• Consult your primary care physician
• Speak with a licensed mental health professional
• Contact a representative at The Recovery Village

Locating Dual Diagnosis Treatment Near You

Dual diagnosis treatment centers provide support for individuals dealing with both mental health and substance use disorders. To find a suitable facility, you can:

• Call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• Utilize a behavioral health treatment locator tool
• Request a recommendation from your doctor
• Ask your therapist for suggestions on dual diagnosis centers
• Search for recovery resources by zip code
• Locate the nearest The Recovery Village facility, as most locations offer dual diagnosis care

Dual Diagnosis Services at The Recovery Village Salem

At The Recovery Village Salem, we recognize that many individuals struggling with addiction also face mental health challenges. We believe that true healing begins by addressing both issues simultaneously, enabling individuals to recover both physically and psychologically. Our dual diagnosis treatment is available in both residential and outpatient programs across most of our nationwide locations.

If you or a loved one are dealing with both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, The Recovery Village Salem is here to help. Our dual diagnosis programs are designed to address both conditions, ensuring a tailored recovery plan that enhances treatment outcomes. To learn more about our comprehensive treatment options, contact us to speak with a Recovery Advocate today.