Addiction is a complex condition that requires comprehensive treatment and support. Veterans living with mental illness and addiction require specialized treatment programs to help them recover and move forward.

TRICARE is a healthcare program for uniformed and retired service members and their families. Some veterans may wonder about TRICARE coverage for dual diagnosis treatment.

This article will outline TRICARE coverage for dual diagnosis treatment programs. You will learn:

  • Who is eligible for TRICARE coverage
  • If TRICARE covers dual diagnosis treatment
  • Who requires dual-diagnosis treatment
  • What to expect in a dual diagnosis treatment program
  • Where to find dual diagnosis treatment for veterans

Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to explore our substance abuse and mental health treatment programs. Our intake team can answer your questions, verify your insurance plan, and help you schedule your first appointment.

What is TRICARE?

TRICARE is a military health system. It provides healthcare for:

  • Uniformed service members
  • Family members of uniformed service members
  • National Guard members
  • Family members of National Guard members
  • Survivors
  • Former spouses
  • Medal of Honor recipients
  • Family members of Medal of Honor recipients
  • Other people registered in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)

TRICARE plans can vary depending on a person’s beneficiary category. It is crucial to verify the details of your specific TRICARE plan before receiving services. This will help you avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Who Needs Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

People with a dual diagnosis have a mental health disorder and substance use disorder (SUD). People with a dual diagnosis require treatment for their mental health condition and addiction at the same time. Receiving treatment for co-occurring disorders can lead to better outcomes.

Recognizing the signs of mental health issues and addiction is the first step toward getting help. Some of the signs of a dual diagnosis include:

  • Having a diagnosis of a mental health disorder
  • Using drugs or alcohol to reduce stress, cope with trauma, or manage other difficult emotions
  • Having a history of anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression, or another mental health condition
  • Relationship problems or interpersonal difficulties
  • Spending a lot of time and energy to get and use addictive substances
  • Substance abuse that makes mental health symptoms worse
  • Increased isolation
  • Significant changes in your mood, sleep, appetite, or other behaviors

People with these symptoms may require specialized treatment options. Veterans are at increased risk of developing SUD and are more likely to live with trauma, stress, or depression. TRICARE offers coverage for dual diagnosis treatment that can help veterans address mental illness and addiction.

Does TRICARE Cover Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

TRICARE typically covers services related to addiction and mental health treatment. The type of treatment you require depends on your needs and insurance coverage. Generally, TRICARE covers all levels of mental health and addiction treatment, including:

It is critical to ensure your treatment center accepts TRICARE insurance. The services TRICARE covers can vary from plan to plan. It is essential to ensure your plan covers the programs and providers you need.

What to Expect in a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program

Dual diagnosis treatment provides evidence-based and holistic therapies. These specialized treatment programs can help people manage the symptoms of a mental illness and address drug or alcohol addiction.

Dual-diagnosis treatment occurs in inpatient treatment and outpatient care settings. Before beginning treatment, people undergo an assessment to determine which level of care best meets their needs. The evaluation may include:

  • Questions about past and current substance abuse
  • A mental health history
  • A medical history
  • Lab testing
  • Physical exam

This information will help the medical and mental health specialists create the most effective treatment plan.

Then, many people go through a medically-supported detox program. Many people complete detox in a treatment facility that provides round-the-clock supervision. Detox treatment programs also include:

  • Medications to keep people safe during detox
  • Emotional support, including individual and group therapy, when appropriate
  • Screenings and assessments
  • Holistic therapies, such as yoga, mindfulness, and nutrition support

After completing a detox program, people participate in a treatment plan to treat their mental health condition and addiction. Treatment plans may include:

  • Medications for cravings and mental health symptoms
  • Behavioral therapies
  • Group, family, and individual counseling
  • Mental health screenings and treatment
  • Relapse prevention education
  • Coping skills
  • Acupuncture, nutrition counseling, exercise, art therapy, and other holistic therapies

People receive tailored mental health and addiction treatment at every stage of treatment. This comprehensive care can help people address the roots of their addiction and learn to manage their mental health symptoms effectively.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love needs dual diagnosis treatment and has TRICARE insurance, contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our Veteran’s treatment programs. You can also contact us with questions, to verify your insurance plan, or to schedule an intake assessment.

Jump to a Section

Call (855) 425-4846