A simple dual diagnosis definition is any time a person is identified as having a substance use disorder and another mental health disorder simultaneously. This dual diagnosis definition also applies to another term: “co-occurring disorders.” In many cases, “dual diagnosis” and “co-occurring disorders” are interchangeable terms as they mean the same thing. Dual diagnosis treatment…
Mental health disorders and substance use disorders overlap at high rates. Treating both conditions together is more complex than treating one on its own. Yet failing to address these disorders simultaneously is a recipe for relapse. The benefits of dual diagnosis far outweigh the added challenges of implementing a dual diagnosis program. Whether mental illness…
Many people who struggle with substance abuse have lost track of how good life can be when sober. Changing habits and thought patterns is hard work. The prospect of getting sober may not sound all that enticing for people who know how difficult the path to get there will be. Yet the benefits of sober…
Many questions come down to the question of nature vs. nurture. Put another way: If something is the result of genetic or hereditary components or if the reasons things are the way they are is because of factors that relate to upbringing, peers, and society. The question of whether or not addiction is based on…
“Wet brain syndrome” is a shorthand term used in discussing Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a combination of two conditions. These conditions are Wernicke encephalopathy and a form of psychosis called Korsakoff syndrome. Wernicke encephalopathy is the first and less severe stage of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Most of those who experience the less severe condition eventually struggle with Korsakoff…
Meth addiction remains a massive problem in the United States. Modern meth labs are sophisticated in producing and shipping meth around the country. This situation has increased dependence and addiction issues in places that previously had little contact with meth. Meth withdrawal symptoms, as with many addictive substances, can have complications. For these reasons, safe…
Painkillers are among the most abused drugs. The opioid epidemic is well-known but has only been made worse by the pandemic. People who were already suffering because of low income, challenging life circumstances, stressful jobs, and unsafe housing situations are just some of those who have been heavily impacted by increased societal problems that make…
Prescription drugs are one of the most commonly abused substances. Common prescription drugs that are abused include opiates, ADHD medications, benzodiazepines (“benzos”), as well as a range of other prescription pills that are designed to be used strictly under doctor supervision and the prescribed dosages. If you or someone you know has developed a dependence…
There are several significant dangers concerning highly addictive prescription drugs. One issue is the ease of access. Too often, illicit substances are left unattended in a household medicine cabinet, and no one keeps track of their use or abuse. Prescription drugs are considered gateway drugs, in part because they may appear less dangerous to experiment…
At any stage of recovery, it’s possible to find yourself struggling. Before negative thought patterns and problematic behaviors become an issue, it’s best to consider preventative measures. At Solution Based Treatment & Detox, our medical professionals and mental health practitioners are ready to help you. Our intensive outpatient program in Murrieta, California, is ready to…