The link between mental health and substance abuse is well established. The two issues can complicate one another when it comes to diagnosis and treatment. For a comprehensive approach to healing, it’s necessary to treat both co-occurring mental illness and addiction at the same time. An integrated treatment approach known as dual diagnosis treatment provides comprehensive care that considers and treats both. This increases the likelihood of successful outcomes for individuals facing these complex issues.
At Aliya Health Group, we offer comprehensive and personalized dual diagnosis services to help our clients achieve long-term recovery from both of their co-occurring disorders. Our network of treatment locations across the country offers treatment programs that can help you brighten your future.
A dual diagnosis, also referred to as a co-occurring disorder or co-morbidity, occurs when an individual is simultaneously diagnosed with both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Common examples of a dual diagnosis would be co-occurring depression and alcohol dependence, anxiety and cocaine addiction, or schizophrenia and opioid use disorder. The conditions create a cycle of mental health symptoms and subsequent self-medication that is difficult to break from. Diagnosing both disorders is key to successful recovery.
It is important to recognize and address both aspects of the dual diagnosis to provide comprehensive treatment and support. Understanding the relationship between substance abuse and mental health can help you find the right treatment plan and achieve a happier, healthier life.
If you are ready to change your life for the better, our admissions team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer all of your treatment questions and help you get started on the path to recovery. If you want to learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment program or want to start your recovery journey, reach out to us to get started on the path to sobriety today.
No one should have to wait to heal, which is why our specialists are available 24/7 to help guide you through the admissions process every step of the way.
According to SAMHSA’s 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 9.2 million adults in the United States had a co-occurring disorder. The question of why is difficult to answer. The connection between mental health and substance abuse is intricate and diverse. It is not a simple cause-and-effect relationship, but rather a complex interplay of various factors.
Research has shown that individuals with mental illnesses are more susceptible to addiction, with substance abuse found to be twice as prevalent among adults suffering from a mental health condition. Likewise, prolonged substance use can also increase an individual’s underlying risk for mental health issues.
There are several contributing factors for co-occurring disorders. One of these is a practice known as “self-medication.” Individuals grappling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma may resort to substance abuse to cope with overwhelming emotions or numb their pain. This act of self-medication may offer temporary relief but ultimately exacerbates both the mental health problem and the substance abuse itself.
Substance abuse can also directly trigger or intensify mental health symptoms. For instance, alcohol can worsen depression and anxiety, especially when continued over long periods. Certain drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine can induce psychosis or paranoia.
Furthermore, both mental health problems and substance abuse can be influenced by similar risk factors, such as genetics, brain chemistry, early life experiences, and trauma. Having one condition increases the susceptibility to developing the other, especially if they are not being properly addressed.
The correlation between substance abuse and mental health disorders is intricate, and there is no universal answer as to which one arises first. It can manifest as a cycle where each factor impacts the other, or they may share common underlying causes.
Individuals who already have mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or trauma may resort to substances to manage their symptoms. They may perceive substances as a temporary escape or a means of avoiding problems. However, in the long term, substance use makes pre-existing mental health conditions worse.
Certain substances also have the potential to initiate mental health issues, particularly when used over an extended period. For instance, marijuana can provoke anxiety or psychosis, whereas stimulants such as cocaine can worsen paranoia and insomnia.
Determining whether substance abuse or mental health disorders occur first is not a straightforward matter. The connection between the two is intricate and often intertwined. Regardless of how these co-occurring disorders may occur, it is crucial to simultaneously address both conditions to achieve effective treatment and recovery.
Dual diagnosis treatment is specifically tailored to address the unique needs of individuals who are facing the complex challenge of simultaneously dealing with a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder.
As a result, those who primarily benefit from this treatment approach are:
Dual diagnosis treatment acknowledges the interconnected nature of mental health and substance use disorders and aims to provide integrated care that addresses both conditions simultaneously, increasing the chances of long-term recovery.
At Aliya Health Group, there are several components to our dual diagnosis treatment program, each of which is designed to help address specific aspects of both our clients’ mental health and substance abuse concerns.
When managing a mental health disorder, this may be done with several treatment modalities, including:
Of course, treating the person’s mental health is only half of the equation when it comes to dual diagnosis treatment. For them to successfully achieve and maintain long-term recovery, it is crucial to address their substance abuse as well.
We use several services to treat co-occurring substance addictions, including:
Studies have shown that integrated treatment combined with early identification has the potential to enhance recovery results and improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing co-occurring disorders.
Some of the main benefits of receiving dual diagnosis treatment include, increased successful recovery rates for both conditions, fewer hospitalizations, reduced medication interactions, improved housing stability, fewer arrests, and improved overall well-being for those who have completed treatment.
Medications can be beneficial in effectively managing symptoms associated with both mental health disorders and substance use disorders. Certain medications even target and alleviate symptoms from both conditions simultaneously.
There are various medications available for the treatment of co-occurring disorders, which can be categorized into different groups based on their specific uses. Some of the most common medications used for treating mental disorders include:
In addition to these, some medications can be used specifically for treating substance use disorders, including:
Finally, a dual diagnosis treatment program may use adjunctive medications to treat both substance use and mental health disorders simultaneously, including:
While it is important to keep in mind that medications are not a cure for either a mental health or substance use disorder, they can be effective tools in improving our clients’ quality of life and providing a solid foundation to build essential recovery skills when used alongside other forms of treatment.
Before entering treatment for co-occurring substance abuse and mental illness, most people have a long list of questions about what it’s like to get help. To help you gain a better understanding of what to expect during treatment, we have compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions.
One example of a dual diagnosis is depression and alcohol dependence. These issues often go hand in hand as individuals suffering from depression may resort to alcohol as a means of self-medication to alleviate their low mood and negative thoughts. However, it is important to note that alcohol consumption can exacerbate the symptoms of depression and ultimately result in addiction to this substance.
According to SAMHSA, co-occurring disorders do not have specific combinations that are exclusively defined as such. In addiction treatment, it is frequently observed that individuals with substance use disorders commonly experience anxiety and mood disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, conduct disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Moreover, individuals undergoing treatment for mental disorders often misuse substances such as alcohol, tobacco, opioids, stimulants, marijuana, hallucinogens, and prescription drugs.
The signs and symptoms associated with a dual diagnosis can vary greatly depending on the specific combination of mental health and substance use disorders, as well as the person experiencing these issues. If you think you need help, reach out today and learn more.
Although the terms “co-occurring disorders” and “dual diagnosis” are frequently used interchangeably, there are slight distinctions between them. Dual diagnosis pertains to the existence of two or more conditions simultaneously, regardless of their nature. These conditions can encompass a variety of physical and mental health issues, such as diabetes and depression.
On the other hand, co-occurring disorders specifically refer to the simultaneous presence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Examples of such combinations include depression and alcoholism, anxiety and cocaine addiction, or PTSD and opioid dependence.
At Aliya Health Group, we strive to provide comprehensive and effective dual diagnosis treatment that takes a person-centered approach to the recovery process. Our program offers a full continuum of care that ensures our clients receive the extensive support and treatment they need throughout every stage of their recovery.
At each step of the treatment process, you will have access to a variety of traditional treatment services and therapies alongside holistic wellness services to address every aspect of both of your co-occurring disorders. From our inpatient and outpatient programs to our continuing care options and alumni programs, we have all of your needs covered.
Each level of care at our facilities can provide you with the support you need to develop healthy coping techniques and life skills, build relapse prevention plans, and gain access to other helpful resources to help you maintain your sobriety and sense of well-being after treatment for drug and alcohol addiction at Aliya.
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Veterans often experience unique challenges, from the moment they are deployed and sent into active combat, to the difficulties faced when reintegrating into civilian life after their time serving has been completed. These experiences can have a significant and long-lasting impact on the mental health and overall well-being of veteran soldiers.
Studies show that the prevalence of mental illness among veterans is higher than the national average. Approximately 25% of veterans struggle with mental illness, with conditions like depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) being particularly common among veterans.
At Aliya Health Group, we understand that the needs of our veterans and first responders can be unique when facing challenges with substance abuse and mental health. Our Valor program provides evidence-based and specialized care to individuals with a military background who are struggling with a dual diagnosis.
We accept most major health insurance providers on both a national and local level. We currently work with the following insurance plans:
Our rehab centers do accept most major insurance providers. Your plan may cover all or part of treatment. There are also other different payment options for rehab depending on your circumstances. For instance, rehab payment plans are often available for those who need financial assistance. Likewise, there are state-funded rehabs and free rehabs located across the nation, and most inpatient treatment facilities accept private payments.
Our admissions team is happy to discuss this option with you and create an estimate of costs based on your treatment plan. Please call us now at 888-973-2078 to learn more about your payment options for rehab.
You can find further assistance by accessing some or all of the following addiction treatment and recovery resources:
From more resources, check out our extensive recovery resources.
“I highly recommend this facility for anyone needing treatment. The staff isn’t just nice and genuine there but instead one big family. Whether it’s the owner, housing manager, or a bht you get the best down to earth genuine care. The material they teach in group is very helpful also.”
Aliya Health Group understands the importance of accessible, quality care for those struggling with co-occurring disorders. That is why we strive to provide dual diagnosis treatment to everyone, no matter where they live. As such, we have rehab facilities spread across the United States. If you or a loved one is seeking help with substance abuse, we encourage you to reach out to any of our addiction treatment center locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, and Washington State.
We’re here to answer any of your questions about mental health treatment options near you.
Give us a call today at 888-973-2078.
