For many sufferers, addiction is compiled by mental health challenges that make curbing addictive behaviors incredibly challenging. Only so many approaches have been studied on addiction, and it has not been until recently that the relationship between mental illness and addiction has been heavily researched. Thankfully, with this step, centers around the world are starting to prioritize this dynamic and create treatment protocols that match the individual needs for battling addiction and mental illness.
When you first come to a dual diagnosis center, you’ll be evaluated and diagnosed with any dual diagnosis conditions that match evidence-based criteria. Your provider will also consider your history of mental health challenges that you may already be aware of. Using this information, your team will establish a treatment plan specific to your needs.
It is not that relapse is not possible without any underlying mental health conditions, but that the likelihood of relapse may increase for individuals who have only sought help for their addiction and not the underlying emotional components. Here, we discuss more about the dual diagnosis treatment center approach and how they are used to help individuals battling with addiction and mental illness. Read on to learn more.
Dual Diagnosis Is Likely Among Suffers Of Addiction
Dual-diagnosis treatment centers recognize the need for the treatment of mental illness and addiction. Out of around every ten people, six will struggle with a dual diagnosis. The reality of co-occurring mental illness with substance abuse is shockingly high, which adds to the necessity of adequate treatment.
The general concept behind the dual diagnosis treatment center approach is that:
- You cannot treat the whole problem by only addressing half of it.
- Many people who suffer from addiction relapse because the underlying emotional and mental health issues haven’t been addressed.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center Approach
Unlike traditional rehab facilities, the patient will do more than detox from substances. During one’s stay, they will develop healthy coping skills to help them deal with the mental components of their addiction or those that lead to addictive behaviors. Skills groups, relapse prevention, and active participation are all introduced so that patients are left with all the tools they need to continue a life of sobriety.
In many cases, referrals to therapists are also provided, and an aftercare plan is developed with the help of the dual diagnosis treatment center care team. In some cases, psychiatrists prescribe medications that can help with mental health concerns and make the detox from drugs more bearable. Not every dual diagnosis treatment center supports the inclusion of detox drugs, but regardless, a psychiatric evaluation will likely be introduced to tend to the mental and emotional sides influencing the addiction, and a diagnosis protocol will take place afterward.
Reach Out To A Treatment Team Today And Get Help
If you’re battling a dual diagnosis, help is available. Reach out to a dual diagnosis treatment center to get the whole-person approach to treatment that you need to overcome the comorbid nature of mental illness and addiction.
