5 Things You Should Know About Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Someone who suffers from a mental health disorder simultaneously with addiction should be given a dual diagnosis.

This co-occurring disorder can be treated with a customized plan developed by healthcare professionals. In the past, people would have to seek separate treatment for their disorders, however, dual diagnosis treatment today involves treating both illnesses at the same time at a drug rehab facility or mental health facility. Our drug rehab in Chicago provides individualized dual diagnosis treatment and we explain the important factors involved in this type of treatment. It’s possible to fully recover from both diseases when you receive the proper care. Here are 5 things you should know about dual diagnosis treatment if you or your loved one is suffering from a co-occurring disorder.

1. A dual diagnosis a very common.

In a past National Survey on Drug Use and Health, over 7 million people in the U.S. experience a mental disorder and substance use disorder simultaneously.1 A dual diagnosis is more common than you think. A mental illness can form either before or after the addiction.

2. There is a high risk for suicide.

Patients who experience addiction in addition to a mental illness may also deal with suicidal thoughts. The combination of both diseases can really alter someone’s thoughts and cause them to continue to engage in unhealthy behavioral patterns or even want to commit suicide. Dual diagnosis treatment helps individuals change these extreme negative thoughts.

3. Dual diagnosis treatment requires customized care.

Because we are dealing with the complexity of two diseases at one time, specialized care is needed to help an individual overcome the struggles. Treatment involves examining the symptoms that are present, which helps individuals realize why the addiction developed in the first place.

4. This specialized treatment may take more time.

Dual diagnosis treatment at the residential level of care can take longer to successfully complete. Mental health and addiction professionals will have to medically assess both diseases and determine a treatment plan that will best work for the individual. Everyone is different, so dual diagnosis treatment may take longer to complete compared to someone who only has one disorder present.

5. Comprehensive care is needed for successful results.

Integrated care should be included in an individual’s recovery journey from a co-occurring disorder. Combining evidence-based treatment with unique therapy methods will best help someone fully recover. Not all drug rehabs provide dual diagnosis treatment so it’s best to perform research to see which facilities provide comprehensive care.

If you are struggling with addiction, you may also have a mental health disorder present.

Get the help you need today by calling us at 888-280-4763 for more information on the treatment programs we provide. Our IOP for co-occurring disorders could just save your life.

Sources:

[1]. National Alliance on Mental Illness, Dual Diagnosis