Dual diagnosis treatment is a bigger and more important part of drug and alcohol rehab programs than many realize. More often than not, substance abuse disorders are not issues that stand alone.
They are often accompanied by other psychological and mood disorders. When two or more disorders are coexisting like this, it is called a dual diagnosis. Without dual diagnosis treatment to handle both disorders, it can be nearly impossible to effectively treat either problem. According to an article posted by the American Psychiatric Association, treatment of these issues separately “delivers fragmented and ineffective care.”
It is estimated that approximately 50 percent of those suffering from severe mental disorders also suffer from substance abuse. Conversely, it is estimated that more than 30% of alcoholics and more than 50% of drug addicts also have a mental health disorder.
Suffering from dual diagnosis without proper dual diagnosis treatment can lead to a higher occurrence of some of the more severe consequences of the disorders, including violence, hospitalization, homelessness, incarceration, infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis, and higher occurrence of relapse to substance abuse.
Dual diagnosis treatment is a specialty program offered at select rehab centers that involves treating both the psychological disorder and the substance abuse disorder simultaneously. In dual diagnosis treatment, the patient is able to receive counseling and medical treatment, by the same team of professionals, treating both issues.
Having the same treatment team is important because it ensures that the correct symptoms are diagnosed and treated appropriately, and makes sure that everyone involved in the treatment is aware of all of the issues and the most effective treatment can be given to the patient.
Effective Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Those who are involved with dual diagnosis treatment are trained to handle the issues in the best manner. Dual diagnosis has been recognized as an issue since the early 80s and since then much has been learned about the interactions of the disorders and effective treatment.
The staff must be sensitive to the needs of those dealing with mental health disorders and substance abuse. The dual diagnosis treatment can then be tailored to the needs of the patient for the most effective treatment of their unique problems.
Both substance abuse and other psychological disorders are problems that are not easily treated. Issues can take months, or even years, to fully treat and resolve. In some cases, such as addiction, there is no cure but treatment can help the patient keep their issues at bay and live a happier life.
Dual diagnosis treatment focuses on achieving long-term results by not only treating the symptoms, but by also addressing the root causes of the disorders.
Destination Hope offers dual diagnosis treatment specifically designed for women.
Our program has received the highest accreditation from the Joint Commission and our clinical staff is made up of experienced doctors, certified addiction professionals, and licensed mental health counselors. If you or someone you care about is suffering from substance abuse and a mental health disorder, please call our counselors. We are here to help.
