A co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis is when a person simultaneously experiences a mental health disorder and a substance abuse problem. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 7.9 million Americans suffer from co-occurring disorders. Addiction treatment programs draw common connections between mental health disorders and substance abuse. For example, those suffering from severe depression, acute anxiety, or bipolar disorder often turn to drugs and alcohol to temporarily relieve their distress.
Treating one condition as separate from the other is never a simple process. An underlying mental health disorder naturally feeds into increasingly addictive behavior. Furthermore, until underlying mental health conditions are addressed, the addictive behavior tends to accelerate. At Peachtree Recovery Solutions, we offer dual diagnosis treatment in Georgia. Call us at 866.863.1129 to learn more about our treatments.
Understanding Addiction and Mental Health Treatment
Suffering from a mental health disorder and substance abuse is a vicious cycle. When mental problems occur, coping mechanisms can lead to substance use. Furthermore, it can significantly impact mental health and grow underlying issues. When struggling with a dual diagnosis, no aspect of life is immune. Jobs, relationships, hobbies, and family all suffer the consequences. Separating the cause and effect of a co-occurring disorder is complex, and it is often made worse by shame, fear, and isolation.
What’s more, drugs and alcohol can adversely interact with prescription medications. Clients being treated for other medical conditions can experience delayed recovery and harmful side effects when abusing substances. With so many maladaptive habits and thought patterns intertwined, it can be immensely challenging to conquer a co-occurring disorder alone. Know that support, treatment, and strategies exist to help those struggling with mental health and substance use disorders.
Through treatment, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms and find joy in everyday life again. Peachtree Recovery Solutions remains committed to providing that help.
Participating in Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment
Those battling dual diagnoses may frequently have a family history of mental illness and substance abuse. Yet, recognizing our maladaptive propensity toward substance abuse to alleviate painful emotions is essential for recovery. There are a few things to remember if you want a successful therapy plan dealing with dual diagnosis. First, you need to be willing to admit that there is a problem and accept help. Second, you need to overcome your denial and be ready to work on fixing the problem. These are some other essentials to keep in mind:
- Know that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness
- Medication may factor into your treatment plan
- Lifestyle choices and tools for changing them
- Peer support creates a community of clients working through dual diagnosis
- Evidence-based approaches and an established aftercare program are critical to effective treatment
The success of treatments for dual diagnosis indicates the importance of an integrated approach to addressing mental health and substance use challenges—and treatment for either must be individualized. A reliable team of medical and mental health professionals aids in the creation of trust and continuity for both therapist and client. While substance abuse is associated with depressive, anxiety, and bipolar disorders, various mental health issues co-occur. Because no two people are alike, it’s crucial to locate practitioners and programs knowledgeable about your specific dual diagnosis and needs.
Get Started with Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center in Georgia at Peachtree Recovery Solutions
Dual diagnosis treatment in Georgia at Peachtree Recovery Solutions involves a comprehensive, collaborative approach. We configure tools and techniques to tackle underlying issues, from individual psychotherapy to group counseling and support groups. We know that addiction is not a simple matter of willpower. We aim to help you get to the root of your addiction and co-occurring mental health disorder, identify triggers, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Clients learn new strategies for self-help and the power of recognizing and replacing triggers. Medical issues, including physical withdrawal symptoms, are managed by trained experts, and counseling moves clients toward sustainable strategies for healthier lifestyle choices. Call 866.863.1129 to start the healing process.