Florida Dual Diagnosis Programs: What You Need to Know
About half of individuals with mental health disorders also struggle with substance use disorders. Either disorder can cause the other and symptoms of both disorders are amplified which requires comprehensive, multi-faceted treatment approaches. Florida dual diagnosis programs can provide the type of care needed to overcome co-occurring disorders and achieve long-term abstinence from drug and alcohol abuse.
Understanding Dual Diagnosis: Definition and Importance
Dual diagnosis refers to the presence of a substance use disorder with a mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. Also referred to as co-occurring disorders or comorbidity, these disorders can greatly complicate the recovery process. These conditions can feed off each other and worsen the other’s symptoms. For example, untreated mental health disorders can make substance use problems worse, and increased substance abuse can worsen mental health symptoms creating a cycle that is difficult to break.
At times, individuals with mental health disorders may use drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. They may engage in substance abuse more frequently and in greater amounts which can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Substance abuse can also trigger a mental health disorder because it can alter brain structure and chemistry responsible for mood regulation. Dual-diagnosis treatment will address both disorders simultaneously to help patients achieve long-term recovery.
Florida Dual diagnosis treatment is vital for successful recovery. If either disorder goes untreated, the person is left at a higher risk for relapse. Even though a person successfully stops drinking or doing drugs, if their mental health symptoms are still present, they may relapse in an attempt to self-medicate. Also, if a person with mental illness continues to engage in substance abuse, they stand little chance of relieving their symptoms as drugs and alcohol continue to interact with their brain chemistry.
Common Co-Occurring Disorders in Dual Diagnosis
Co-occurring disorders can include a wide range of mental health disorders along with drug or alcohol addiction. A person with a dual diagnosis may have one or more mental health disorders as well. While there are more than 200 classified mental health disorders, here are the most common co-occurring disorders in dual diagnosis:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Major depressive disorder
- Eating disorders, including anorexia and bulimia
- Bipolar disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Programs
When mental health and substance use disorders are present, dual diagnosis programs are often the best option. An effective recovery program involves correctly diagnosing mental health conditions, addressing the root causes of addiction, and tailoring the program to the individual. Here are some primary benefits of dual diagnosis programs in Florida:
- Reduced relapse rates: Dual diagnosis understands the connection between mental health and substance abuse to address both simultaneously. Studies show that treating both disorders at the same time greatly reduces relapse rates.
- Improved quality of life: as patients learn to manage both their substance use disorder and mental health symptoms, they can live a happier, healthier life.
- Comprehensive, personalized treatment: dual diagnosis aims to tailor recovery programs to each individual. Personalized treatment plans can address the underlying causes of addiction and create a program at resonates with that person.
Key Features of Effective Dual Diagnosis Programs
When looking for Florida dual diagnosis programs, there are several key features to look for that will help you determine whether it is the right fit for you. Here are some main components to look for:
- Licensing and certification: the treatment facility should be licensed by the state of Florida and the best recovery programs are certified by a third-party organization like the Joint Commission.
- Use personalized treatment plans: one-size-fits-all programs do not typically work for dual diagnosis, look for programs that offer personalized treatment plans.
- Use evidence-based treatments: treatments and therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) have been proven to work through years of research.
- Offer multiple levels of care: programs that offer inpatient and outpatient treatment programs can provide the step-down system often needed to overcome co-occurring disorders.
Treatment Approaches in Dual Diagnosis Programs
Dual diagnosis programs in Florida will use a variety of treatments and therapies to address substance abuse and mental health symptoms simultaneously. For dual diagnosis treatment to be effective, the person must stop drug and alcohol use completely. Medical detox programs can provide the medication and support needed to ease withdrawal symptoms and complete the detox process. Programs that combine medication-assisted treatment (MAT), behavioral therapies, support groups, and holistic treatments are often the most effective. Integrative dual diagnosis treatment will provide patients the greatest chance at long-term recovery as they do not separate mental health disorders from substance abuse and aim to understand and treat their connection.
How to Choose the Right Dual Diagnosis Program in Florida
When choosing a Florida dual diagnosis program, you must find one that fits your needs. The number one thing you should look for is that the programs use an integrated approach which ensures they address both disorders at the same time. Dual diagnosis is complex and may require long-term inpatient rehab. Programs that offer multiple levels of care with flexible lengths of stay may be your option. You should also consider how important amenities are for you. Luxury treatment facilities can offer private rooms with pools or outdoor areas which can make your stay much more comfortable, increasing the likelihood of completing the program. Programs that offer aftercare and support can also be important, as they will help you adapt back to your daily life without the use of drugs or alcohol successfully.
The Role of Family and Support Networks in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Family and support networks can play a vital role in both short-term and long-term recovery. Families can have a more positive impact on the recovery journey when they can understand your addiction, provide support, and effectively communicate. Family involvement can not only create a robust support network but can also enhance compliance and help identify any triggers. Unconditional love and forgiveness within the family dynamic can be powerfully healing and improve recovery outcomes.
Building a support network made up of family, counselors, and others in recovery can help you get through the toughest parts of recovery. The road to recovery is tough and there will be many times you will be tempted to use again or even relapse. Having a support network can get you out of those difficult times and even be a motivator for maintaining sobriety.
How WhiteSands Treatment Offers Comprehensive Dual Diagnosis Care in Florida
Dual diagnosis programs are the most effective treatment when dealing with both substance use disorders and mental health disorders. Unfortunately, not many treatment facilities can offer this life-saving care. When looking for Florida dual diagnosis programs, WhiteSands Treatment can give you the best chance at long-term recovery.
WhiteSands Treatment is a network of drug and alcohol addiction treatment centers across Florida. Our comprehensive dual diagnosis program will create a personalized treatment plan that will address the underlying causes of addiction while also treating any co-occurring disorders present. Dual-diagnosis treatment programs can include a combination of medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and group therapy. We also offer all levels of care including medical detox, inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and aftercare programs to meet patients’ needs and provide an effective step-down system.
If you are ready to start living the life you envisioned free from substance abuse, please give us a call today at (877) 855-3470. We are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have or to get you started on the road towards recovery. Â
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.
About the Author
Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.
