Dual diagnosis refers to a person who has a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. Substance abuse can cause mental health complications, and mental health disorders can contribute to addiction in some people. Regardless of the specific situation, mental health treatment is critical for those facing substance use disorder.

In the U.S., about 21 million adults suffer from an SUD, and 8 million of them have a diagnosed mental illness, as noted in the National Survey on Drug Abuse and Health. What does that mean to you, and why do you need dual diagnosis treatment?

Does One Disorder Cause the Other?

Dual diagnosis, which is often referred to as co-occurring disorders, can occur for many reasons. In some situations, a person with a mental health disorder, like depression or ADHD, may turn to substances to help control their symptoms. This is called self-medicating. Over time and with consistency, this can lead to dependency, a condition in which a person cannot easily stop using the substance even when they want to.

Alternatively, a person with a substance use disorder may also be predisposed to mental health disorders through genetics or environmental factors. Using substances could encourage the mental health disorder’s development. More so, consistent substance use can cause changes in brain chemistry that lead to the onset of mental health disorders in some people.

What Are the Most Common Co-Occurring Addiction and Mental Health Disorders?

Numerous types of mental health disorders can occur alongside addiction. Consider a few of these relationships.

Depression and Substance Use

Depression in all forms can be linked to a wide range of complications from substance use disorders. This includes the use of alcohol, cocaine, stimulants, and combinations of these drugs. Substance abuse and the following are not uncommon:

• Major depressive disorder
• Bipolar disorder

Suicidal Ideation

Suicidal ideation occurs when a person is thinking about or planning to harm themselves. A life-threatening condition, substance use can come first, or mental health disorders can occur first.

Personality Disorders and Substance Abuse

Those with notable personality disorders may turn to substances like alcohol to help with controlling negative thoughts and intense feelings. Others use drugs as a way to focus and calm their minds. Common associations include:

• Antisocial disorder
• Avoidant personality disorder
• Narcissistic personality disorder
• Borderline personality disorder
• Paranoid personality disorder

Psychotic Disorders and Substance Abuse

Psychotic disorders, those that involve psychotic symptoms, are common causes of substance use as the person tries to self-medicate. Examples include:

• Schizophrenia
• Schizoaffective disorder
• Schizophreniform disorder

Anxiety Disorders and Substance Abuse

Those struggling with anxiety disorders may utilize substances to help calm the mind and nerves. In some situations, anxiety disorders can also develop in those who have suffered substance abuse for some time. Examples include:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Panic disorders
• Phobias

Behavioral Disorders and Substance Abuse

Behavioral disorders are those related to the way a person engages with the world around them. Examples include:

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Common Drugs Associated with Dual Diagnosis

Mental health disorders may involve the use of a wide range of drugs. Some common substance use disorders include:

• Cocaine addiction
• Alcohol addiction
• Benzo addiction
• Meth addiction
• Opioid addiction, including fentanyl and heroin
• GHB addiction
• Ecstasy addiction

Signs and Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders

Dual diagnosis and mental health treatment are critical for those with a drug or alcohol addiction. To seek proper treatment, it’s critical to see the signs commonly associated with these conditions.

Common symptoms of dual diagnosis include:

• Intense mood swings, especially without the use of substances
• Loss of interest in activities and relationships
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Onset of anxiety and constant worrying
• Reduction in productivity, work habits, or school performance
• Isolating from family and friends

How Are Co-Occurring Disorders Diagnosed?

Dual diagnosis is a complex disease. Many people don’t know they have underlying mental health conditions due to the control and commanding symptoms of a substance use disorder. The only way to know what is occurring is to go through the detox process and get a formal evaluation with a trained and licensed therapist.

Mental Health Treatment for Dual Diagnosis

Customized treatment plans at Engage Wellness Acton will address both mental health disorders and substance use disorders at the same time. Treating one without the other does not allow for full improvement or lasting recovery. The level and type of care provided will range from one person to the next, but it may include the following.

Detoxification

Many times, until detoxification occurs, it may not be clear if a person has a mental health disorder. A full evaluation is typically necessary after detox. It enables the body to break through its dependence on the substance and forces the brain to function properly. We partner with area detox centers to provide clients with the exceptional support they need during this process.

Inpatient Treatment

Those with serious addiction concerns will go through a period of inpatient care. During this time, you will meet with an individual therapist while also receiving care in group therapy sessions. Many times, inpatient therapy will include a range of treatment methods, including experiential care, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication-assisted therapy.

Care will include support for medical concerns, medication management of mental health disorders, and treatment for underlying health complications. Talk therapy will likely include several strategies to support full recovery.

Consider these components of inpatient care and mental health treatment:

• Behavioral therapy: This typically includes group and individual therapy sessions focused on providing a better understanding of underlying thought processes that lead a person to use substances. Cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and motivational interviewing are commonly used.
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): MAT is often necessary for those with dual diagnosis. Medications can be used to ease withdrawal symptoms and improve overall management of mental health symptoms.
• Peer support: Group therapy is often a core component of long-term recovery. It focuses on teaching real-world strategies for improving health and well-being.

Ongoing Care

After inpatient therapy, many people benefit from continued care. This could include in a stepped-down program where you’ll come in several days a week for therapy sessions. Over time, that frequency reduces.

Our team prepares you for the real world. Through the use of exceptional resources, ongoing support through mentorship, local recovery groups, and an always-available team, you can continue receiving the care you need. Over time, you’ll build strength and confidence, but our alumni programs are always available to foster ongoing growth and support.

Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Treatment

The benefits of dual diagnosis therapy are essential to long-term recovery. A person with mental health disorders who does not receive care for them may be unable to stop using substances for a long period of time. At the same time, treating the mental health disorder without breaking dependency limits overall success.

The benefits of dual diagnosis treatment include:

• Individualized treatment plans to address the unique needs of each person
• Increased mental health and physical health
• Reduced complications and overdose risk
• Improved overall quality of life

With dual diagnosis treatment, you can work towards recovery. That may mean improving your health, but it may also mean rebuilding valuable relationships, creating a career plan for yourself, and building a strong future.

Our Dual Diagnosis Program

At Engage Wellness Acton, we offer a comprehensive dual diagnosis program that fosters individualized therapy and treatment to meet your specific needs. If you are struggling with any type of substance abuse or mental health disorder, it is critical to seek care from a location specializing in dual diagnosis treatment.

Our team is always available to offer you support. Contact us 24 hours a day to discuss your specific needs. If you are relying on drugs or alcohol, take substance abuse seriously. Get the level of care and support you need to build a strong, healthy future.

Set Up a Consultation or Meet Our Admissions Team Now

With comprehensive mental health treatment, you can expect our professionals to listen, support, and guide you into the treatment that builds a long-term recovery. Contact Engage Wellness Acton for immediate help and guidance.