Dual diagnosis treatment is a common form of treatment for people who are struggling with a mental disorder and substance use. When you combine these two issues, it can make recovery much more difficult than if you were dealing with just one of them.
When you have a dual diagnosis, you need to get help from professionals who can help you deal with both issues at the same time. The good news is that there are plenty of different types of treatment options available.
What is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
A dual diagnosis is when a person has both alcohol and drug addiction problems along with another mental health issue. For example, someone could be addicted to drugs and also suffer from depression or anxiety.
This type of combination is not always easy to treat because it requires that multiple professionals work together to create an effective plan for recovery that meets your needs as well as those of your family members who may be affected by your addiction issues.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Options
There are several different types of dual diagnosis treatment options available today including:
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient dual diagnosis treatment is usually the most intensive form of addiction treatment and is generally recommended for those who are suffering from a severe case of substance abuse disorder and/or mental illness. Inpatient treatment, also known as residential treatment, can be beneficial for individuals who need to focus on their recovery without having to worry about other responsibilities.
Residential treatment programs offer 24-hour medical supervision and round-the-clock access to medical professionals in case of emergency or relapse. This type of care is suitable for those who are suffering from severe cases of addiction and mental illness, but it can also be beneficial for those who require more intense treatment because they have complicated issues that cannot be addressed in outpatient settings.
These programs usually last between 28 days and six months, depending on the severity of an individual’s addiction and/or mental health issues.
Outpatient Programs
Outpatient dual diagnosis treatment requires you to attend weekly sessions with an addiction counselor or therapist and work on developing coping skills for managing stressors and triggers related to your addiction and mental health condition(s).
You still receive the resources and support that you need, the only difference is that you’re not residing in a treatment center. Outpatient programs typically meet weekly for about an hour per session, but can also include group sessions or family counseling if needed.
The Final Word
Dual diagnosis treatment helps those who suffer from both a mental health problem and a substance use disorder. In most cases, the person will be treated by a team of therapists that includes psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors.
The treatment may also include medical professionals who can assist with any physical health issues that have arisen as a result of drug or alcohol abuse. This treatment approach is, however, typically recommended for those whose addiction has progressed to the point where they are unable to stop using drugs or alcohol without professional help.