Living with substance use disorder (SUD) can make every aspect of life more challenging. Substance abuse can strain your relationships, harm your health, and impair daily functioning. It can also have an effect on your mental health and overall well-being.

People with SUD and a mental health condition may face additional challenges. Substance abuse can worsen the symptoms of mental illness. The symptoms of mental health conditions can also make addiction recovery more challenging.

Mental health experts refer to people with SUD and mental illness as having a “dual diagnosis.” There are about 4 million people in the United States who live with addiction and mental health challenges. Unfortunately, fewer than 1 in 10 people with co-occurring disorders will ever seek treatment.[1]

This article will explore the benefits of dual diagnosis treatment. You will learn:

If you or someone you love lives with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, you are not alone. Reach out to the specialists at First Step Behavioral Health to explore our treatment and support programs. Contact us with questions or to set up an intake appointment.

What is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Dual-diagnosis treatment programs provide evidence-based treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. During treatment programs, people follow a tailored treatment plan that may include:

People work with licensed mental health specialists and medical professionals. They engage in therapies to address the complex, underlying roots of their substance abuse. At every stage of treatment, they receive targeted therapies that help them develop coping skills and support. This can help them to manage mental health conditions and prevent relapse.

5 Benefits of Attending a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program

Dual-diagnosis treatment programs provide high-quality addiction treatment therapies while also addressing a person’s mental health conditions. People receive tailored care to help them manage both conditions. This treatment can help people have a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle in recovery.

Here are five of the most significant benefits of attending a dual-diagnosis treatment program.

1. Evaluation

At the beginning of a dual diagnosis program, mental health and medical professionals thoroughly evaluate each person to determine the root of their condition. They gather information about the person’s health, symptoms, substance use, family history, and more.

This evaluation can help the treatment team create the most effective SUD and mental health treatment programs. Continuing assessments allow the team to adjust the treatment plan as the person’s needs change.

2. Medically-supported treatment

Dual-diagnosis treatment programs may provide medications, along with group therapy, mental health treatment, education, and other holistic support. Medications can help people manage withdrawal, reduce mental health symptoms, and improve quality of life.

3. Tailored care

Recovering from addiction and managing mental illness are not one-size-fits-all processes. Each person has their own unique symptoms, experiences, and strengths.

During a dual-diagnosis treatment program, mental health and medical experts get to know each person individually. They work to understand the complex roots of their substance abuse and mental illness. This allows them to provide the most tailored, effective treatment programs possible.

4. Holistic treatment

Addiction is not just a physical condition. Many factors can impact substance abuse and mental illness, including:

Holistic dual diagnosis programs include treatment for a person’s body, mind, and spirit. Instead of offering detox-only programs, dual-diagnosis treatment centers provide tailored therapies that can help people improve their physical, emotional, and social health as they overcome addiction.

5. Focus on aftercare

Addiction and mental health issues are often lifelong conditions. Attending a dual-diagnosis treatment program can help people develop a solid foundation of skills and support to help them manage these conditions.

However, people must stay active in their recovery. During a dual-diagnosis treatment program, people work to create a relapse prevention aftercare plan. They work with mental health and medical professionals to identify community resources and support.


An aftercare plan may include:

A dual-diagnosis program can help people address the immediate aspects of their condition and find the support they need to work toward lifelong recovery after rehab.

Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Pompano Beach

If you or a loved one requires treatment for substance use disorder and mental health conditions, you are not alone. Find effective, accessible dual-diagnosis treatment programs at First Step Behavioral Health. Our South Florida dual diagnosis treatment center offers several programs to meet a wide range of needs. Contact our specialists to learn more or schedule an intake appointment.

References:

  1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Co-Occurring Disorders and Other Health Conditions
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