Dual Diagnosis

As a group that’s lived through addiction, we understand that it’s anything but simple. It often presents itself as a tangled web of hidden underlying issues fueled by undiagnosed mental health problems, childhood trauma, and other unfortunate life circumstances. Unfortunately, dual diagnosis is quite common in addiction treatment, yet it’s notoriously difficult to recognize because the effects of drugs and alcohol often mimic mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Without addressing these underlying mental issues, relapse is likely, even if you go through the full spectrum of treatment. Fortunately, the experts at Peace Valley Recovery have been where you are, making it easier for us to identify something as serious as a dual diagnosis. We’re here to help – and we can start by explaining everything about this condition.

What Is Dual Diagnosis?

If you’ve received a “dual diagnosis,” it means that you have both a substance use disorder (SUD), either with drugs or alcohol, and a mental disorder. A dual diagnosis is considered a type of “comorbidity,” which means you have two disorders simultaneously. It’s also referred to as a “co-occurring disorder.”
Mental and substance use disorders commonly occur together. If you develop an SUD, you’re more likely to be diagnosed with a mental disorder. The reverse is also true – those with mental disorders are more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Dual diagnosis is common in people with severe mental illness, teenagers, and individuals with certain mental disorders.
The most common risk factors that contribute to the development of both mental disorders and substance use disorders include the following:

  • Stress
  • Genetics
  • Childhood trauma
  • Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

What’s Included in Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Detox

Detox is a critical step in dual diagnosis treatment because it helps manage withdrawal symptoms from substances while also addressing underlying mental health issues. It enables you to engage more effectively in therapy and psychiatric care, leading to better outcomes.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab for dual diagnosis treatment offers intensive, round-the-clock care to address both substance abuse and mental health issues simultaneously, providing a supportive environment for recovery and therapy.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is essential in dual diagnosis treatment because it targets both substance abuse and mental health issues through techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This helps you manage triggers and promotes meaningful changes in your behavior and mental wellness.

Medication

Medication plays a vital role in dual diagnosis treatment by addressing both the symptoms of mental health disorders and substance withdrawal by stabilizing your mood and alleviating cravings. It complements therapy by providing a holistic approach to managing symptoms and promoting recovery. By balancing brain chemistry, medication can enhance the effectiveness of therapy and support long-term recovery efforts.

Addiction alone is complex to manage, but when you factor in a mental disorder, it may seem like an insurmountable hurdle to overcome. However, with guidance and empathy from the experts at Peace Valley Recovery, you stand a fighting chance at achieving stability and happiness from life. If you’re interested in learning more about dual diagnosis, please request additional information here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Receiving a diagnosis of this magnitude can be overwhelming, which is why we want to help. Below, we’ve created a list of FAQs that will provide you with some much-needed clarity.

Dual diagnosis often arises due to a combination of factors. For example, genetics can make some people more likely to have both problems, while challenging experiences like trauma or growing up around substance abuse can also play a role. Sometimes, using drugs or alcohol to deal with mental health symptoms can make things worse in the long run. Simply put, dual diagnosis is a complex mix of genetics, life experiences, and how someone deals with stress and emotions.

Dual diagnosis is unique because it involves struggling with two significant challenges at once: substance abuse and mental health issues. Unlike facing just one problem, dealing with both means juggling the complexities of addiction alongside managing psychological well-being. It’s like trying to untangle two knots at once and requires careful attention to both aspects for effective treatment and recovery.

Identifying dual diagnosis can be complex, but there are common signs to watch for. If someone exhibits symptoms of both substance abuse and mental health issues, such as mood swings, changes in behavior, or difficulty coping with everyday life, it could indicate a dual diagnosis. Recurring patterns of substance misuse despite attempts to quit or worsening mental health symptoms despite treatment may also suggest a co-occurring disorder. Seeking professional evaluation from a healthcare provider experienced in dual diagnosis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning.

Yes, dual diagnosis treatment can be effective when tailored to individual needs, especially when you go to a facility like Peace Valley Recovery that specializes in this condition. By addressing both substance abuse and mental health issues simultaneously, treatment can help individuals achieve better outcomes and long-term recovery. Integrated approaches that combine therapy, medication management, support groups, and lifestyle changes have shown long-term success in managing dual diagnosis.

Ready for the Next Steps?

If you’re looking to get help, Peace Valley Recovery can help. We specialize in treating individuals struggling with your condition, and we want to make tomorrow a day you can look forward to. It’s time to free yourself of addiction and adequately manage your mental health. Please reach out to us today, and one of our compassionate admissions specialists will be in touch with you shortly to provide assistance and support on your journey to recovery.

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