Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program

Most people are familiar with substance use disorder (SUD) – perhaps a loved one struggled with drugs or alcohol and or they themselves were caught in the cycle of addiction. Likewise, most people are familiar with mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. However, did you know that it is quite common for both to occur simultaneously? This is known as dual diagnosis and is best treated in a professional addiction treatment program.

Every year, millions of people worldwide suffer from substance abuse disorder (SUD). Unfortunately, many of them also suffer from co-occurring mental health issues, the effects of trauma, and other health concerns. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health revealed that more than 9 million US adults experienced mental issues and substance abuse disorder simultaneously in 2018. Until the 1990s, people with mental health and substance abuse issues typically received specialized treatment for one condition at a time. Today, individuals with SUD, alongside co-occurring mental health issues, receive a dual diagnosis.

Solution Based Treatment & Detox has experience treating dual diagnosis. Our professional, compassionate staff is ready to help you regain control of your life. Call 833.999.1941 today for more information.

Substance Use Disorder and Mental Illness

According to reports published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 37% of people who abuse alcohol and 53% of people who abuse drugs also have at least one serious mental illness. Moreover, 29% of mentally ill individuals abuse alcohol or drugs. With dual diagnosis, it does not matter which came first – the substance use disorder or the mental health disorder. The disorders feed off each other and each reinforces the other in negative ways. You might need to seek professional intervention if you or a loved one engages in the following behavior patterns:

Using drugs and alcohol to feel better
Drinking or using drugs to alleviate depression
Feeling anxious without drugs or alcohol
Drinking or using drugs to cope with unresolved trauma or abuse

Signs and Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis

Despite the prevalence of dual diagnosis, many people are unaware that the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges and chemical dependence often occur at the same time. While symptoms can vary widely depending upon the specific mental health concern and type of substance used, certain physical indicators and behavior patterns may signal a need for professional intervention. Symptoms of substance use disorder include:

Withdrawal from friends and family
Sudden changes in behavior
Engaging in risky behavior
Loss of control over substances
Using substances in secret or in dangerous conditions
Feeling like you need drugs or alcohol to function
Bloodshot, glazed eyes, and dilated pupils
Poor physical coordination
Dramatic changes in habits or priorities

Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders

Treating addiction and mental health concerns simultaneously is the best way to approach a dual diagnosis. Mental health challenges and addiction have common risk factors, including genetics, stress, and trauma. People may develop a substance use disorder as a result of an improperly treated mental health condition. In many cases, people suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and other mental health and psychiatric disorders use drugs or alcohol to feel better. Self-medicating can lead to an unhealthy dependence on drugs and alcohol, which, in turn, can lead to SUD. Becoming chemically dependent can also cause people to develop related psychological conditions.

Symptoms of a mental health condition can include:

Extreme mood swings
Problems with concentration
Thoughts of suicide
Avoiding friends, family, and social activities
Dramatic changes in eating and sleeping habits
Feelings of hopelessness
Long-lasting sadness or irritability
Excessive fear, worry, anxiety