Dual diagnosis is a term you will likely hear if you are researching treatment options for substance use disorder. However, dual diagnosis is much more than a trendy catch-all phrase. Therefore, learning what is dual diagnosis is an important step in finding the right treatment center. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a mental health disorder co-occurring with substance abuse, seek treatment from a drug and alcohol detox program in FL that offers dual diagnosis therapy treatment.
What Is Dual Diagnosis?
Looking closely at the term will give you some clues about what is dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis is used to refer to a person who is experiencing both a substance use disorder and a mental illness at the same time. You might also hear dual diagnosis referred to as co-occurring disorders.
It can be difficult to separate which illness came first, the substance use disorder or the mental illness. However, substance abuse and mental health disorder must be treated simultaneously in order for a person to successfully recover. In some cases, if a person is experiencing a mental illness, they might turn to a substance such as opioids, marijuana, or alcohol as a way to cope. There is significant evidence, though, that doing self-medicating with drugs or alcohol worsens the mental illness and its symptoms.
In fact, because using addictive substances like alcohol, cocaine, meth, and heroin can alter the brain, substance use can lead to mental illness in a person who has not been previously diagnosed with one. In the United States, there are approximately 9.2 million adults who experienced a substance use disorder co-occurring with a mental health condition in 2018, according to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
Symptoms of a Co-Occurring Disorder
Because substance use disorder and mental health conditions are so closely interlinked, they can share some of the same symptoms. For example, the following symptoms can be a sign of either condition:
- Changes in personality and behavior
- Depression
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Mood changes
- Problems concentrating
If a person is experiencing a substance use disorder, they may have limited control of their usage. They may feel like they need the substance in order to function. Therefore, they might develop a high tolerance for drugs and alcohol, which leads to withdrawal symptoms if they try to suddenly stop.
If a person has both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition, both must be treated simultaneously in order to maximize the chance of a successful recovery. This type of treatment is often referred to as an integrated intervention. The first step in attaining this treatment is through a thorough assessment by a professional who is trained in both conditions.
What To Look For In A Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center
When choosing a treatment center for dual diagnosis, it’s important to find one that offers a continuum of care. This all-encompassing approach means the facility can meet your needs, or the needs of your loved one, during every phase of recovery. Look for the following treatment services and options in the facilities you are researching:
Detoxification
This is an important first step in your recovery that typically occurs after you’ve undergone a thorough assessment. Having access to 24-hour detox services that are overseen by a medical staff ensures your comfort and safety.
Residential Rehab
Residential rehab gives you the best chance of making a full recovery. It offers around the clock access to medical staff and a variety of activities, resources, and tools, set in a relaxing atmosphere of caring and support.
Addiction Treatment Services
Just like there is no single substance that is addictive, there shouldn’t be a single treatment service aimed at everyone. Individualized treatment services approach your recovery with your goals, history, situation, and more in mind.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, we care about helping you live the life you were meant to lead. Contact us today at 866.294.5306 and learn how our compassionate and supportive staff can help!
