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How Do You Treat Dual Diagnosis?

Person talking to their therapist about dual diagnosis treatment

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and another mental health issue, getting treatment for both can be tricky. Finding care that addresses addiction and other mental health problems is difficult. But, getting a proper diagnosis for both is vital to getting proper treatment for dual diagnosis cases. Call 888.341.3607 to speak with someone from the knowledgeable team at Ashwood Recovery about our dual diagnosis treatment program in Idaho.

What Is a Dual Diagnosis Case?

Dual diagnosis refers to an individual with a combination of a mental health issue and s substance use disorder (SUD). For example, someone with depression and alcoholism would be considered a dual diagnosis patient. Addiction can cause or exacerbate mental health problems making addiction treatment more challenging. Conversely, mental health problems can cause people to use drugs or alcohol to cope, making addiction treatment more difficult.

Common Cases of Dual Diagnosis

Some of the most common examples of dual diagnosis cases include:

  • Depression and alcoholism
  • Bipolar disorder and drug addiction
  • Anxiety and cocaine abuse
  • Schizophrenia and alcohol abuse
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and meth addiction

You may believe that you or a loved one struggles with co-occurring conditions, but that is not enough to receive treatment for dual diagnosis. Of course, an experienced clinician should first provide an accurate assessment and diagnosis.

Treatment for Dual Diagnosis

At Ashwood Recovery, we understand that dual diagnosis cases require a specialized approach that includes both mental health treatment and addiction recovery. Our comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment program allows clients to heal from addiction while addressing underlying mental health issues.

How Can You Help Someone Struggling with Co-Occurring Disorders

If someone tries to quit addiction or treat their mental health condition without proper medical and psychological support, they are more likely to relapse. Support groups can help because they offer connections with peers seeking treatment for similar issues, resulting in an environment of hope and motivation.
However, the best way to help someone struggling with co-occurring disorders is to encourage them to seek professional help from experts who can diagnose and address both underlying conditions.

The proper diagnosis is essential when it comes to dual diagnosis cases. Testing and evaluations by medical experts are performed to determine the correct treatment process. Once a diagnosis has been reached, a treatment plan begins with detoxification to remove harmful substances from the patient’s system. This is followed by behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), that deal with mental health issues. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help patients in their recovery.

What to Expect from Dual Diagnosis Treatment

A dual diagnosis treatment program begins with a complete evaluation of mental and physical functioning conditions. After assessment, health professionals create personalized treatment plans for each patient. Medical staff provides support during the entire process to ensure patients receive the proper care during their recovery journey. Trying to handle co-occurring disorders alone can be frustrating. That’s why dual diagnosis treatment programs are some of the most effective when treating drug addiction and mental health conditions.

A typical dual diagnosis treatment program includes any or all of the following:

  • Medical and psychiatric evaluation
  • Group, individual, and family therapy
  • Medication management
  • Relapse prevention skills
  • Recovery support services

Like more traditional addiction treatment programs, it usually ends with aftercare planning, designed to help patients continue their recovery journey after leaving treatment.

Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Idaho at Ashwood Recovery

If you or someone you know has a dual diagnosis case, connecting with a professional dual diagnosis treatment program is essential. This integrated approach provides you with support for both mental health and addiction issues. Dual diagnosis treatment programs at Ashwood Recovery provide personalized assessment, detox, behavioral therapies, medication, and peer support to ensure those struggling with co-occurring disorders receive the best care. Contact Ashwood Recovery today at 888.341.3607 and take the first step toward recovery.