In 2020, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that 17 million adults in the United States experienced a dual diagnosis. This is when an individual has both a mental illness and a substance use disorder.
When an individual has a dual diagnosis, it must be treated differently than a typical substance use disorder. How do you treat a dual diagnosis treatment?
Keep reading this guide for everything to know about dual diagnosis treatment centers and more.
What Is Dual Diagnosis?
What is dual diagnosis? A common dual diagnosis definition is when someone has a substance use disorder and a coexisting mental health condition. Individuals with addictions may not realize that a mental illness contributes to addictive behavior.
In fact, many times an addiction will begin because people are not able to self-manage their mental health issues if they are not diagnosed.
As patients being to treat their co-occurring disorders, they are able to address the root issue of mental health. This makes it much easier for patients to achieve lifelong sobriety, as they can learn more about why they are suffering from an addiction.
Thousands of people have co-occurring illnesses. Because of this, it is important to find a dual diagnosis treatment center. These facilities specialize in treating multiple conditions at the same time.
Why Are Substance Use Disorders and Mental Disorders Co-Occurring?
Why is it so common for substance use disorders to co-occur with mental health disorders? Although these issues often occur together, it doesn’t mean that one condition caused the other.
There are many common risk factors that can lead to both mental health disorders as well as substance use disorders. This includes genetics, stress, and even some types of trauma.
Another reason why they are often co-occurring is that mental disorders can contribute to substance use. For example, someone with depression may use drugs or alcohol as a form of self-medication.
Plus, many mental health disorders can affect the brain. This can make it more likely for someone to become addicted to different substances.
Why Is Dual Diagnosis Treated Differently?
When an individual with a mental health disorder also has a substance use disorder, rehabilitation is far more complex. Patients that are forced into traditional rehabilitation programs may not be treated properly. This may result in a lower chance of full recovery.
In the past, substance use disorders and mental health disorders were treated separately. This made it difficult and nearly impossible for patients with a dual diagnosis to qualify for mental health treatment.
Substance abuse treatments are more effective when patients can treat their mental health disorders. This way, they will be less likely to relapse in the future. Plus, it can help them identify the root cause of their addictive behavior.
Types of Treatment for Dual Diagnosis
One of the most common treatment options for dual diagnosis is IOP, also known as an intensive outpatient program. Often, patients can find a men’s rehab program in MA or a women’s IOP in MA to treat their specific needs.
Outpatient programs allow patients to stay at home while getting treatment. This way, they can still live a normal life.
Patients with severe mental illnesses or heavy substance use may require intensive residential treatment. An outpatient rehabilitation program cannot provide enough care for more serious cases.
There are several types of programs often included in dual diagnosis treatment in Massachusetts. First, they must work with both substance abuse specialists and mental health specialists. This way, a patient will have all their needs met for both conditions.
It is also important to find a center that provides psychotherapy treatment. Getting to the root of a mental health condition may provide more insight into the cause of a substance use disorder. If therapy doesn’t help, medication may also be required.
Finally, all household members of a patient with a dual diagnosis should be involved in the treatment. This way, individuals will have a support system to help them achieve lifelong sobriety.
Signs That Someone Needs Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Massachusetts
It is important to learn more about the signs that someone needs dual diagnosis treatments. This way, they can get the right type of treatment.
Often, patients with a co-ocurring disorder will begin to retreat from their relationships. This is likely due to their undiagnosed mental health issues.
Another sign that an individual needs dual diagnosis treatment is that they are not able to control their substance use. If an individual starts using substances in unsafe conditions or if they develop a higher tolerance to their substances, it may be necessary to get medical treatment.
Individuals with a dual diagnosis may also attempt to quit using substances but will frequently relapse.
Finally, many people who have poor mental health and substance use disorders cannot get their mental health under control. They may feel like they need to continue using substances to function normally.
Recognizing these signs can help patients get the treatment necessary for lifelong recovery.
Find the Right Care for Dual Diagnosis or Addiction Treatment in MA
Individuals with a dual diagnosis must find a dual diagnosis rehab center. This way, they will be more likely to find lasting rehabilitation.
Finding an IOP in MA can help individuals with dual diagnoses get the treatment they need to recover! If you need dual diagnosis treatment, Paramount Recovery Centers can help! Our experts provide treatments through virtual IOP and evening IOP.
Contact us today to learn more about our services or to join a program to start the road to recovery.
Paramount Recovery Center’s Substance Use Disorder Treatment in MA for Drug and Alcohol Addiction
When you come to Paramount Recovery Centers IOP in Massachusetts, we aim to make you feel as welcome as possible. We recognize that many individuals dependent on drugs or alcohol struggle to deal with trauma, rage, guilt, or anxiety. We will do everything possible to make guests feel at ease and secure.
We provide various options for men’s and women’s IOP in MA, including Virtual IOP and Evening IOP. You can learn more about our intensive outpatient program by giving us a call or reaching us through our online contact form.
