What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

man listening to what is dual diagnosis treatment being explained

Nearly one-third of individuals with mental illnesses and almost one-half of those with severe mental illnesses also suffer from co-existing problems with addiction or substance abuse. Likewise, more than one-third of all alcohol abusers and over half of all drug abusers suffer from some form of mental illnesses. When individuals struggle with both, professionals call these co-occurring disorders

Often, individuals aren’t aware of their underlying mental health issues. What they do know is they are in pain or discomfort. Turning to substances seems to alleviate their pain. But this is only temporary and actually worsens their condition. Thus, making the proper identification and effective dual diagnosis treatment is essential. Integrative Life Center understands physical addiction and mental health need to be treated together. It’s the only way for someone to heal and return to full health.

Often, a mental health condition arises first, and then addictive behavior follows, creating co-occurring disorders such as OCD and substance abuse. In other instances, the situation is reversed: drug use causes a mental health disorder. Regardless, these co-occurring disorders must be addressed and effectively treated at dual diagnosis treatment centers for recovery to be successful. 

Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders

While a substance use disorder comes with its own set of signs and symptoms, indicators of mental illness may be all over the place. Sometimes it’s difficult to tell that a second condition exists because symptoms so closely mimic addiction. But if you’re worried that a loved one may have a mental health issue, common signs include:

  • Persistent sadness
  • Restlessness
  • Delusions
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Fear of social interactions
  • Self-imposed isolation

Furthermore, if you do suspect that your loved one may have both a mental health issue and a substance use disorder, some symptoms of co-occurring disorders to look out for include: 

  • Struggles with friendships and relationships
  • Financial difficulties
  • Legal challenges
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Angry, risky, or violent behavior
  • Challenges with holding a job
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Using drugs or alcohol to cope

What is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis is a grave and complex relationship. Because of this, it requires expertly planned, integrated treatment methodologies. With such techniques in place, individuals can fully heal from all forms of the serious, multi-faceted disease. Untreated or incomplete treatment leaves individuals with ongoing, underlying conditions. Almost always, these issues worsen the initial problems or supplant one problem for another.

Treating just one source on the web of connected issues increases the risk of relapse. Also, it leaves individuals finding little success using traditional, short-term treatment measures. So complete healing of the entire network of disorders is crucial for an individual to completely overcome their suffering once and for all. Often, those suffering from addiction or mental illness are unaware of the complex network of underlying issues, causes, symptoms and consequences that coincide with an identified problem. Untangling the roots of one’s illnesses can be a challenge. However, dual diagnosis treatment implements an effective plan. At Integrative Life Center, we provide a high level of expertise and long-term care at our dual diagnosis treatment center in Tennessee.

Integrative Life Center’s Approach to Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Treatment for those suffering from multiple illnesses or addictions is complex due to the multiple layers of care required. To maximize the full potential of each dual diagnosis treatment, our expert clinicians and therapists work hand-in-hand. They provide the comprehensive care needed for an individual to completely heal from multiple illnesses. Our team utilizes a customized process of integrated evidence-based therapies and treatment that tackle issues from every possible angle, including:

At Integrative Life Center, our dual diagnosis treatments are provided in a safe, supportive, and real-world environment. Our continuum of care approach to healing means we offer dual diagnosis treatments that cater to a client’s needs at every step throughout his or her journey through recovery. From partial hospitalization and extended care to intensive outpatient programs and transitional living, we stand at your side. Individuals have many options if they struggle with addiction or if they struggle with mental health issues. But few addiction and mental health treatment centers offer the full spectrum of care needed for individuals suffering from multiple disorders at once.

Are You Ready to Overcome Your Co-Occurring Disorders? Our Tennessee-Based Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center Can Help

If you or your loved one is in need of dual diagnosis treatment, we’re ready to partner with you at Integrative Life Center. We’re located in scenic Nashville on a wooded campus that’s conducive to relaxation and healing. Clients who recover at Integrative Life enjoy top-quality accommodations and excellence in behavioral healthcare. Meals are farm-fresh and prepared by skilled chefs who understand the importance of balanced nutrition to recovery. We’ll help strengthen your body through good food choices and your mind through a full range of treatments to guide you gently into recovery from substance use disorder or mental illness.

With the right dual diagnosis inpatient treatment centers, long-term healing is possible.  Contact Integrative Life Center for a free screening and analysis to get started on your path to recovery, 

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