One in five adults in the United States has a mental health issue. This information comes from the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Unfortunately, less than 70% of Americans receive the help they need for mental health issues. Many also do not join addiction recovery programs.
Several reasons cause this gap in treatment. The most common reason is stigma about mental health.
Financial issues can also play a role. Personal misunderstandings often contribute to the problem. Additionally, there is a lack of awareness about addiction.
Many studies show that getting professional help is essential for emotional or behavioral issues. This is especially true for people with co-occurring disorders.
Co-occurring disorders, or dual diagnosis, happen when someone has both substance abuse and a mental disorder. Over 16% of people in substance abuse treatment also have a mental disorder.
Frequently, these disorders are viewed as distinct issues. However, to ensure long-term recovery, it’s essential to treat co-occurring disorders simultaneously. This approach can be effectively achieved at a dual diagnosis treatment center in Florida.
What is a Dual Diagnosis?
A dual diagnosis occurs when an individual struggles with both a mental health issue and a substance use disorder. This situation can be challenging to navigate, as the symptoms of one condition can exacerbate the other.
For instance, a person dealing with anxiety might turn to alcohol to seek relief. However, over time, alcohol can heighten anxiety levels. This illustrates the importance of providing treatment that simultaneously addresses both conditions.
Focusing on just one condition is not enough, as they are interconnected. Typically, dual diagnosis treatment includes therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments to promote overall well-being.
Substance misuse often happens along with mental health conditions. Nearly 50% of individuals with substance use disorders also face mental health challenges, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Many factors cause these issues to often occur together. Various factors lead to the frequent overlap of these issues.
Individuals struggling with mental health issues often turn to drugs or alcohol in an attempt to ease their symptoms. However, self-medication through substance abuse can alter brain chemistry, which may exacerbate existing mental health conditions.
People who grow up in places where substance abuse is common are more likely to face addiction and mental health issues.
There is no one-size-fits-all way to treat co-occurring disorders. However, programs that address both substance use and mental health issues together are often the most effective.
Common Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis
Some symptoms may indicate that you or a loved one has a dual diagnosis:
- You often feel that you live in two worlds: one where everything seems okay and another where everything feels terrible.
- You misuse drugs or alcohol as a way to manage feelings of anxiety or sadness.
- You struggle to avoid drugs or alcohol, even when you are aware that they are creating issues in your life.
- Managing your impulses can be quite challenging.
- You have made several attempts—without success—to seek help for substance abuse or mental health issues.
- Your issues with mental health or substance use may have caused difficulties in your personal or work life.
- You frequently have shifts in mood or unpredictable behavior.
- You have received a diagnosis of a mental health condition and a substance use disorder.
- You struggle with social interactions and relationships.
If you are facing both addiction and a mental health issue, it is essential to seek help. A dual diagnosis rehab center can provide the support you need.
This type of center offers care for both your addiction and mental health challenges. Addressing both conditions is vital, as focusing solely on one increases the likelihood of relapse.
Common Dual Diagnosis Disorders
While this is not an exhaustive list of all mental health issues, some disorders are commonly seen in dual-diagnosis cases.
Common mental health disorders that often accompany drug and alcohol addiction include:
- Depression
- Bipolar disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Eating disorders
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Personality disorders
- Social phobia
- Schizophrenia
People who struggle with substance use problems are more likely to face these disorders than those who do not misuse substances.
If you or someone you know is dealing with a dual diagnosis, it is essential to seek professional help. A treatment center that focuses on dual diagnosis can create a personalized plan. This plan addresses both the substance use problem and the underlying mental health issue.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Florida: Levels of Care and What to Expect
The growing area of dual diagnosis is open to individuals who have both mental health and substance use disorders. Clients with psychiatric issues are encouraged to start treatment for substance abuse right away rather than being excluded.
Dual diagnosis treatment aims to provide equal attention to both the mental health condition and the addiction. An initial assessment will assist in creating a personalized treatment plan tailored to each client’s needs.
Inpatient Treatment
If you have a dual diagnosis, inpatient treatment at a rehab facility can help you recover. Inpatient treatment involves residing at the rehab center during your treatment.
This setup is beneficial as it allows you to concentrate on your recovery without outside distractions. Programs for dual diagnosis in these centers provide 24/7 care and supervision. This support helps you heal effectively.
This type of treatment is best suited for individuals who are dealing with both a mental health issue and a substance use problem, as they face an increased risk of relapse and harmful actions.
Residential treatment facilities in Florida offer a variety of services, such as:
- Medication management
- A variety of therapy modalities
- Holistic activities to support recovery
- Medical care
Personal therapy helps you work on your issues with a therapist in a private space. Group therapy provides a supportive setting where you can share your experiences with others with similar challenges.
Inpatient treatment programs typically last 28 days, although some individuals may require a more extended stay based on their treatment progress.
Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP)
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is for people needing more support than outpatient services. Psychiatric hospitals or addiction treatment facilities run these programs and provide more care than typical outpatient programs.
PHPs last six to eight weeks. They include individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, medication management, and other support services. They are often a step down from inpatient treatment or a way to prevent relapses after inpatient care.
Clients with dual diagnoses can decide to live at home or in sober living. They can attend daytime treatment and keep their evenings and weekends free. The Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers intensive care while promoting independence.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) provide regular treatment while allowing you to stay at home and continue your job or studies. These programs include group therapy, individual therapy, education about mental health, and sessions to help you build skills.
In IOP, dual diagnosis treatment typically occurs three to five days a week for three to four hours daily. These programs serve as an effective bridge from inpatient or PHP programs back to daily living.
Outpatient Program (OP)
Outpatient dual diagnosis treatment programs usually last one to three hours each week. They include individual and group therapy, psychiatric support, and education to help you understand and manage your conditions.
Intensive outpatient programs meet three to five days a week for three to four hours daily. These programs help people transition from inpatient care or partial hospitalization to everyday life.
Support Groups
Living with a serious mental health condition can make people feel lonely and withdrawn. If substance abuse is also a problem, these feelings can get worse.
Support groups and 12-step programs, such as Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA), build a sense of community and encourage people facing similar challenges in their recovery journey.
Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Florida Today
At Palm City Wellness, we understand that treating dual diagnoses is an essential step toward sobriety and stability. Our compassionate team is committed to providing a supportive environment tailored to your needs. You don’t have to face this journey alone; we’re here to help you find the hope and healing you deserve.
References:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Individuals with Mental Illness
- National Library of Medicine: The Interaction of Co-Occurring Mental Disorders and Recovery Management Checkups on Substance Abuse Treatment Participation and Recovery
- National Library of Medicine: Common Comorbidities With Substance Use Disorders Research Report