A dual-diagnosis treatment program is a type of addiction therapy that focuses on the mental health disorders that lead to addiction. Men and women with depression, anxiety, or other disorders are more likely to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to feel better without realizing the danger they are putting themselves in. Addiction will only worsen their symptoms and create a dependence on the substance of choice, which can complicate the recovery process. A dual-diagnosis treatment center focuses on both conditions simultaneously for a more effective recovery experience.
Enrolling in an addiction and mental health treatment program is the best course of action for individuals who are abusing alcohol or other drugs to feel better. A team of experts will evaluate your physical and mental health, along with the severity of the addiction, to create a treatment program specific to your needs. You will participate in group and private therapy sessions in a comfortable environment while you gain healthy new coping skills and a new outlook on life. Go online and search for a dual diagnosis treatment center near you today to start your recovery journey.
What Is a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program?
Addiction is a mental health disorder that can cause depression, anxiety, and other disorders, as well as be a symptom of those disorders. Many people in the U.S. try to treat mild forms of depression and anxiety with drugs or alcohol. They think they are safe from addiction because they are only taking a small amount. Unfortunately, that small amount increases over time as tolerance levels build, and they don’t deal with the mental health issue fueling the addiction.
A dual-diagnosis treatment center works on the underlying mental health disorder that is fueling the addiction to stop the abuse once and for all. Some of the disorders that a dual diagnosis program can treat include:
- Major depressive disorder
- Social anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Borderline personality disorder
- Psychosis
- Schizophrenia
Enrolling in a dual-diagnosis treatment program is essential for those who are struggling with addiction caused by another mental health disorder. You will work with a behavioral therapist using various therapeutic techniques that are proven to reduce their symptoms and cravings.
What to Expect from a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center
When you enroll in an addiction and mental health treatment program, therapists will run a full assessment to determine which types of therapy are best for your unique symptoms. Programs will combine behavioral and holistic therapies along with medical support to create a well-rounded recovery experience.
Addiction Treatment Programs
A dual-diagnosis treatment program will consist of residential and outpatient treatment programs. Residential treatment provides a safe home for clients to work on their recovery, free from outside distractions and triggers. This program typically will last from 30, 60, to 90 days. Once completing the program, clients will graduate to outpatient treatment, where they will continue with the same beneficial therapies while slowly integrating back into their lives.
The types of therapies used in dual diagnosis programs include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and other types of therapy programs.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication is very effective in reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, along with any depressive or anxiety symptoms fueling the addiction. Caring staff members will administer medications to each client and monitor them for any adverse reactions. Once withdrawals start to fade, they will slowly begin reducing the medication until no longer necessary.
This program doesn’t replace one drug with another. By the end of the program, most clients will no longer need the medication to continue with their sobriety.
Holistic Therapy Programs
Addiction is a lifelong illness with no cure. Fortunately, there are several addiction treatment programs available that will help clients maintain their sobriety. In addition to behavioral therapy, there are other holistic therapies that will benefit the recovery process. These include yoga therapy, nature/adventure hikes, meditation, nutrition education, group discussions, dance/music therapy, and journaling or creative writing.
Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment at a Mental Health Treatment Center Near You
A dual-diagnosis treatment program is the best way to treat addiction that is caused by depression, PTSD, social anxiety, or other types of mental health disorders. Behavioral therapists work closely with each client to create an atmosphere of trust and open communication so they feel comfortable opening up about sensitive subjects and past traumas.
To enroll in an addiction and mental health treatment program, search for a dual-diagnosis treatment center near you today to make a positive change in your life.