What is The Best Treatment for Dual Diagnosis?

When looking at what is the best treatment for dual diagnosis, it’s important to note dual diagnosis of substance abuse can be quite challenging to treat. However, recovery is possible with the right diagnosis and treatment programs. An integrative approach that uses a combination of medication management, therapy, and holistic treatments can offer patients their best chance towards long-term abstinence from drugs and alcohol while helping them achieve a higher quality of life. Here we will help you understand the importance of the best treatment strategies for dual diagnosis.

Understanding Dual Diagnosis: Definition and Importance

Dual diagnosis refers to a person who has a substance use disorder and mental health disorder simultaneously. The effects of substance abuse on mental health, and vice versa, have long been known. Either disorder can cause the other and worsen the other’s symptoms. Both disorders can also develop independently from the other.

Sometimes, individuals with a mental health disorder may turn to substance abuse in an attempt to self-medicate. Drugs and alcohol can create feelings of euphoria and generally dissociate from negative feelings temporarily. Unfortunately, these feelings are short-lived and can lead to worsening symptoms in the long run. Drugs and alcohol can damage brain structure and its ability to make, absorb, and regulate various biochemicals related to mood. The person may use drugs or alcohol more often or in bigger doses as their mental health symptoms worsen, which can lead to substance dependence and eventually addiction.

Individuals who engage in substance abuse can trigger or worsen a mental health disorder. Not every person who consumes alcohol or drugs will develop a mental illness, but it can happen for those with a predisposition to one. Mental health disorders and substance use disorders can also develop independently from one another because both disorders have common risk factors, including genetics and environment.

Dual diagnosis is important as both disorders need to be treated at the same time for successful recovery. Treating only one disorder at a time can leave the person vulnerable to a relapse. The person may successfully stop drinking or drug use temporarily, but if their mental health issues are still present, they are likely to relapse in an attempt to cope with their symptoms. It is also important for substance abuse to cease to successfully treat mental health disorders.

The Challenges of Treating Dual Diagnosis

One of the biggest challenges in treating co-occurring disorders is accurate diagnosis. Many symptoms associated with mental health disorders can be easily mistaken as a side effect of addiction. If mental health disorders go untreated, it can raise the risk of relapse. Several mental health disorders can also share similar symptoms which can also make the right diagnosis tricky. Individuals may also struggle with accepting the connection between their mental health and substance abuse.

Dual diagnosis treatment can be complex and lengthy to treat both disorders effectively. Even with the right treatment, dual-diagnosis patients are at higher risk for relapse. They will need to place a greater amount of effort and self-awareness during their aftercare programs.

Facilities that treat mental illness and substance use disorder concurrently are crucial for dual-diagnosis patients. However, few facilities treat both or have the clinical staff capable of correctly diagnosing it. Treatment is also only effective when the person stops any substance abuse.

Integrated Treatment Approaches for Dual Diagnosis

An integrated treatment approach for dual diagnosis is a comprehensive and consistent approach to treating this highly complex condition. Clinicians can work together to understand the patient’s symptoms separately, how they affect one another, and develop a successful recovery plan. Integrated treatment plans will consist of various types of evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches to address all areas of a person affected by their mental health and substance dependence. Some of the best treatment approaches for dual diagnosis include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
• Medication management
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Exercise and nutrition
• Art therapy
• Biofeedback
• Medical detox
• Inpatient and outpatient levels of care

The Role of Medication in Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Medication for dual diagnosis helps to decrease symptoms and stabilize the patient as they learn to manage their symptoms through therapy. Medication-assisted therapy (MAT) is widely used in addiction treatment, as it can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms during the initial stages of drug detox when they are most intense. MAT can help individuals successfully stop substance abuse and avoid an early relapse. Medications can also be used to manage mental health symptoms both short-term and long-term. Specific medications prescribed will depend on the individual’s diagnosis but can include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, mood stabilizers, sleep aids, and antipsychotics.

The Importance of Therapy and Counseling

Therapy and counseling are key for dual diagnosis treatment. It provides a structured platform for addressing the psychological aspects of both mental health and addiction. Through therapy, individuals can uncover and understand the root causes of their SUD, such as stressors, past trauma, or emotional pain. Therapists can help individuals develop the right coping strategies to deal with mental health symptoms, triggers, and cravings in a healthier manner rather than turning to substances. Techniques used in CBT and DBT help to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with both disorders. Individuals will also learn how to improve their communication skills, relapse prevention, and offer support.

Benefits of Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment

Complex cases, such as those seen in dual diagnosis, may require inpatient treatment. Individuals can greatly benefit from beginning their recovery journey in inpatient treatment as it provides the structured environment, support, and safety needed to overcome addiction. Inpatient treatment can separate the person from outside triggers and distractions which allows them to fully focus on themselves and their recovery. They will also be surrounded by supportive staff and a community of peers to help them through the many difficulties experienced during the recovery process.

Outpatient treatment is a great step down from inpatient treatment, as it helps patients readjust to the outside world with enough support and continued treatment as they learn to navigate their lives without the use of drugs or alcohol. Some people may choose to start treatment at this level of care as they can continue going to work, live with supportive loved ones, and apply what they learn in real-time.

Personalized Treatment Plans for Dual Diagnosis

Successful dual diagnosis treatment lies in personalized treatment plans. Every person experiences mental health and addiction differently, which requires a treatment plan tailored to their needs. A tailored approach to dual diagnosis allows flexibility. Clinicians can create a treatment plan with the types of therapies, frequency of treatment, and level of care for each person and their goals.

How WhiteSands Treatment Provides Comprehensive Dual Diagnosis Care

WhiteSands Treatment is a network of drug and alcohol addiction treatment centers throughout Florida that offers dual diagnosis treatment. Our comprehensive treatment programs, along with our highly qualified staff, offer dual-diagnosis patients their best chance at long-term recovery. Every treatment plan is personalized for each patient and will include a variety of therapies needed to address the underlying causes of addiction. Patients can choose from all levels of care and follow an effective step-down system that will help stop substance abuse and create a better quality of life.

If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues, please give us a call today at (877)855-3470 to start the road towards recovery.

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.