Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders at Banyan

Addiction is a terrible disease. It can lead to severe health problems, unsightly physical effects, relationship problems, and even legal issues, but for some people, the problems do not stop there. If you find that you or a loved one is struggling with poor mental health on top of a drug or alcohol issue, Banyan’s dual diagnosis treatment centers can help.

Dealing with a substance use disorder is challenging enough on its own, but unfortunately, addiction is often accompanied by other troubles as well. An estimated 7.7 million adults in the United States suffer from both a substance use disorder as well as a mental illness, known as a co-occurring disorder.

What Is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis, also known as a co-occurring disorder, is the term used to describe an individual who is suffering from a substance abuse disorder as well as a mental health disorder simultaneously. Dual-diagnosis disorders are often difficult to diagnose or may be misdiagnosed due to the complexity of the symptoms. It can also sometimes be difficult to determine which problem came first. Many people struggling with mental health problems will turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate and will develop a substance abuse problem as a result.

Others may develop a mental health disorder after they already have an addiction. According to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, over 9 million Americans struggled with both a mental illness and a substance abuse problem that past year. If you or someone you know has been experiencing these issues, a dual-diagnosis treatment program could make all the difference.

Warning Signs of a Dual Diagnosis

When two diseases are present at the same time, it can be hard to manage the active symptoms. There can be an overlap when it comes to the symptoms of depression and the symptoms of alcoholism and it’s important to seek professional treatment for a proper diagnosis. The signs and symptoms of dual diagnosis will vary depending on the diseases present. If you are worried that your loved one is suffering from a co-occurring disorder, look for these warning signs.

  • Daily functioning is almost impossible
  • Inability to keep a job
  • Healthy relationships are being destroyed
  • Extreme mood changes and frequent outbursts at people
  • Irritability and restlessness
  • Financial struggles
  • Engaging in risky behavior
  • Employment Problems

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Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have as you consider whether treatment at Banyan is right for you or your loved one.

The Co-occurring Disorders We Treat

At our nationwide treatment centers, we understand that addiction often isn’t just about the body’s dependence on a drug. Because every person’s problems are unique, treatment for a co-occurring disorder needs to be tailored to the patient for a comprehensive approach. We work to create a personalized treatment plan so that patients can not only overcome their addictions but also improve their mental health in the process. During their time with us, patients will participate in numerous different treatment programs and therapies designed to meet their specific needs.

Our dual-diagnosis treatment centers can handle a variety of co-occurring disorders, including:

  • Depression and Substance Use Disorder
    • When depression symptoms last over at least two weeks and start to interfere with normal life, this is when the depressive state can be an issue.
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks and Substance Use Disorder
    • Anxiety and/or Panic disorder and addiction treatment plans come with intense therapy sessions including individual and group settings, education on both the anxiety or panic disorder and disease of addiction, family support groups, relapse prevention, and more.
  • Bipolar Disorder and Substance Use Disorder
    • Bipolar disorder is known as one of the more serious mental health disorders that is characterized by intense and sudden mood changes, drastic energy level changes, and erratic and irrational behavior.
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Substance Use Disorder
    • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), formerly known as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), is a behavioral disorder often diagnosed at a young age. There is an assumption that those with ADHD are more prone to addiction due to early prescription of stimulant medications like Adderall and Vyvanse, which can be addictive. In some dual-diagnosis cases, the mental disorder leads to self-medication with alcohol or drugs, potentially causing addiction. Full-blown addiction can have devastating results, making it crucial to treat both the addiction and behavioral disorder concurrently for sustained recovery. At our treatment center, we provide individualized programs to address the symptoms of both disorders.
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized when an individual experiences repetitive and recurring thoughts that cause anxiety and irrational fears.
    • With individual and group therapy sessions, patients will explore the relationship between their addiction and mental health problems with a licensed therapist and peers struggling with similar issues. We work to create a personalized treatment plan so that patients can not only overcome their addictions but also improve their mental health in the process. During their time with us, patients will participate in numerous evidence-based and holistic treatment programs and therapies designed to meet their specific needs.

What Are the Risks of a Dual Diagnosis?

A person's health can be seriously affected by the complex combination of risks that come with having two diagnoses. The first problem with a dual diagnosis is that it might lead to approaches to therapy that are ineffective since symptoms of one ailment can mirror or be misunderstood for those of another. Moreover, the complex interaction that can arise between substance abuse and mental health problems makes people with two disorders much more prone to relapse. Treatment attempts may be complicated if both disorders are present, making it more difficult to find appropriate treatments. There is also a greater likelihood of self-medication, which involves using medications to address mental illness symptoms. This poses a risk to one's overall health. Social isolation, stigma, and difficulties in accessing suitable care also contribute to the elevated risks associated with dual diagnosis. Overall, addressing these complex interrelationships is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.

What Is the Dual Diagnosis Model of Treatment?

During dual diagnosis treatment, the patient will receive an initial medical assessment that will determine the best rehab program and type of treatment needed.

At our nationwide treatment facilities, we provide customized treatment programs, and our clinicians and therapists are committed to fully treating and healing each patient for long-term success. Through unique addiction therapy methods and evidence-based treatment, a patient will be able to overcome both diseases and learn the tools needed to handle everyday situations in recovery. Additionally, patients are taught to actively practice relapse prevention techniques outside of treatment, minimizing the chances of a relapse. Implementing a dual diagnosis model in addiction treatment centers is crucial for providing comprehensive and effective care.

Here's an overview of the key aspects:

  • Integrated Approach:
    • Recognizes the interplay between substance use and mental health disorders.
    • Provides a seamless integration of treatment for both conditions within the same therapeutic framework.
  • Simultaneous Treatment:
    • Addresses both substance use and mental health issues concurrently rather than treating them in isolation.
    • Aims to achieve a holistic understanding of the individual's unique challenges and needs.
  • Comprehensive Assessment:
    • Conducts a thorough assessment to identify and evaluate both substance use and mental health disorders.
    • Considers the impact of one condition on the other to inform a tailored treatment plan.
  • Customized Treatment Plans:
    • Develops individualized treatment plans that address the specific needs and challenges of each person.
    • Combines evidence-based interventions for substance use and mental health disorders.
  • Collaborative Care:
    • Involves a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including addiction specialists and mental health professionals.
    • Promotes collaboration between treatment providers to ensure cohesive and coordinated care.
  • Psychoeducation:
    • Provides education about the relationship between substance use and mental health disorders.
    • Helps individuals understand how one condition may influence or exacerbate the other.
  • Dual-Focused Therapies:
  • Relapse Prevention:
    • Integrates relapse prevention strategies that address both substance use triggers and mental health challenges.
    • Empowers individuals with coping skills to navigate stressors without resorting to substance use.
  • Ongoing Monitoring:
    • Continuously monitors progress in both substance use and mental health treatment.
    • Adjusts the treatment plan as needed to address evolving needs.

The Dual Diagnosis Model of Treatment aims to break the cycle of recurrent issues by providing comprehensive, integrated, and individualized care.

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The Importance of a Relapse Prevention Plan

In the realm of dual diagnosis treatment, relapse prevention is a crucial aspect of recovery. An individual's relapse prevention plan acts as a road map for navigating the obstacles and triggers that may appear along the way to recovery. It offers a structured framework that enables people to recognize potential threats, create coping mechanisms, and maintain their advancement through time.

The ability of a relapse prevention plan to address the intricate interactions between mental health and substance addiction is one of the primary reasons why it is essential for people with co-occurring illnesses. The symptoms of one illness frequently worsen the symptoms of the other in co-occurring disorders. Individuals can establish individualized strategies to manage both elements of their substance use and mental health by developing a thorough relapse prevention plan. By doing so, they can obtain a greater awareness of the complex relationships that exist between their mental health symptoms and substance use.

Relapse prevention strategies also give people a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy. It enables individuals to reclaim control over their lives and gives them the skills they need to overcome obstacles. People can increase their resilience and improve their capacity to fend off relapse by recognizing possible triggers, putting healthy coping strategies into practice, and putting in place a support network. Relapse prevention plans are proactive measures that enable people to take control of their recovery and make decisions that are in line with their long-term objectives and general well-being.

Get Started with Dual-Diagnosis Treatment

If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder and substance abuse, help is just a phone call away. Our nationwide drug and alcohol rehab could lead you or a loved one to a life free from drugs or alcohol and with improved mental health. Contact us today at (888) 981-7763.

Not all programs are available at all locations. Please contact the location for availability.

Related Reading:

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Connection Between Self-Harm and Mental Illness 

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