What is dual diagnosis?
For many individuals psychological jargon can be confusing and intimidating and we would like to help individuals better understand mental health issues and co-occurring disorders. Dual diagnosis has been the term used to identify other diagnoses ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar and other mood disorders, eating disorders and personality disorders that often co-occur with substance abuse. Simply stated, an individual with a mental illness in addition to a substance abuse disorder is said to have a dual diagnosis.
How is dual diagnosis different from co-occurring disorders?
In recent times the term dual diagnosis has been replaced with co-occurring disorders and closer attention has been paid to treating secondary mental health issues. Very often individuals entering drug rehab for addiction treatment receive services to address drug abuse and alcoholism exclusively; co-occurring disorders and mental health issues remain undiagnosed and therefore untreated.
Why is it important?
Many without mental health issues do the same to cope with daily stressors, social anxiety and self esteem issues. Those with mental health issues are often more sensitive to the effects of drugs and alcohol and can rapidly decompensate falling into addiction or alcoholism. Research studies have found that 50% of all individuals diagnosed with severe mental illness have co-occurring substance abuse disorders, most likely alcoholism. An undiagnosed and untreated co-occurring disorder is often a precursor to relapse and oftentimes the problem of chronic relapse. Symptoms of depression, anxiety and mood disorders often manifest themselves and individuals find themselves caught in a frustrating and addictive cycle.
Treatment
Experts agree and evidence-based research shows that effective treatment that address both diagnoses simultaneously result in more successful outcomes. At the alcohol treatment center, Florida House Experience we understand the importance of addressing psychiatric issues that often underlie substance abuse and our staff are expertly trained and qualified in diverse treatment modalities and our medical director, renowned psychiatrist and addictionologist uses an integrated treatment approach. The most successful model is one where the treatment team provides both mental health counseling and substance abuse services.
Recovery
There is help for individuals’ diagnosed with co-occurring disorders and with the right interventions and treatment most go on to lead satisfying, meaningful and productive lives in sobriety free of drugs and alcohol. As a specialist in alcohol treatment center, Florida House Experience uses the concept of dual diagnosis, recognizing the importance of holistic as compared to dedicated treatment. Various treatment and recovery methods are used alongside this. Our team of professionals is committed to addressing all components that are vital to ones overall wellbeing to promote lasting recovery. Recovery is possible with the right help!
References:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration
National Alliance On Mental Illness
