In a nutshell, a dual diagnosis is quite common, which is why many rehab centers offer treatment for both substance abuse and mental health disorders. This is because mental health issues can lead to addiction, and addiction can trigger mental health issues or make an existing condition worse. It is not unusual for people struggling with addiction to experience mood swings or display erratic behavior, but these symptoms don’t always indicate a mental health issue. It’s important to discuss treatment options with the guidance of a psychiatrist and an addiction professional who will be able to tell if a dual diagnosis is present or not.
Table of Contents
What Is Dual Diagnosis
A dual diagnosis is when someone has a co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder. Not everyone who struggles with addiction suffers from a mental health issue, and vice versa. There are several reasons why some people are more vulnerable to experiencing both disorders at the same time, including childhood trauma and early exposure to drugs or alcohol.
Receiving proper treatment for both disorders makes all the difference when it comes to long-term recovery, as addiction and mental health issues can trigger one another.
Don’t let yourself lose to the battle of addiction. Our expert and compassionate staff can help you in so many ways. Contact us today to learn more.
Types Of Mental Health Disorders Common In Dual Diagnosis
Depression, PTSD, and schizophrenia are among several mental health disorders that are often present in dual-diagnosis. People struggling with depression, for example, may turn to cocaine or alcohol in an attempt to self-medicate and escape from their feelings. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people with mental health issues are four times more likely to abuse alcohol, while people who are addicted to drugs are two times more likely to suffer from anxiety disorders.
Anxiety and Panic Disorders
People with anxiety and panic disorders live in a state of fight or flight. Because they are always on high alert, their bodies are primed for signs of danger, and they may feel an underlying sense of dread and unease. People with panic disorders have recurring panic attacks, in which they experience intense fear, heart palpitations, nausea, and other symptoms. These panic attacks happen suddenly and it may be challenging to find out what triggered them.
Schizophrenia
People who are diagnosed with schizophrenia hallucinate and have delusional thoughts. Long periods of substance abuse can trigger schizophrenia and can make symptoms even worse. There is a strong link between addiction and schizophrenia, as about 50 percent of people with this disorder also have a history of addiction.
Major Depressive Disorder
Also known as clinical depression, major depressive disorder is experienced as intense feelings of sadness, despair, and hopelessness. Extended periods of depression can lead to suicidal thoughts and feelings, which many people try to medicate by using drugs or alcohol. The temporary relief felt by taking substances can lead to addiction, as the positive feelings become harder to come by.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Also known as PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder occurs when someone experiences a traumatic event such as violent combat, sexual abuse, or the loss of a loved one. People with PTSD often feel tired and worn out from living in a constant state of fight or flight and can also experience anxiety and depression. Veterans and survivors of abuse for example, often suffer from PTSD and turn to drugs or alcohol in an attempt to feel better.
Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder experience intense mood swings that alternate between periods of depression and mania. Studies show that almost 60% of people with bipolar disorder have a history of drug or alcohol abuse. Substance use can trigger bipolar disorder in some individuals, while other people who already have the disorder use in an attempt to regulate their mood swings.
Treatment Modalities For Dual-Diagnosis
Treatment modalities for dual-diagnosis include cognitive-behavioral therapy, pharmaceutical therapy, and various forms of psychotherapy. The treatment approach for dual diagnosis often includes individual and group therapy sessions, which each provide necessary forms of support, healing, and integration. Treating both disorders at the same time is a more sustainable approach to recovery, resulting in better outcomes including a lower risk of relapse, and improved life skills.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Also known as CBT, cognitive-behavioral therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on implementing positive behavioral changes and building life skills. One of the hallmarks of CBT is empowering individuals to realize that their thoughts have the power to influence how they feel. By identifying unhealthy thought patterns and beliefs with the help of a skilled therapist, a person can begin to choose new thoughts, and as a result, make different choices.
Group Therapy
One of the core benefits of attending group therapy sessions is the opportunity to connect with people who are on a similar healing journey. Being isolated can often trigger a relapse and may have been a factor that caused the addiction or mental health issue in the first place. The positive support of peers makes long-term recovery more likely, which is why support groups are an integral part of the recovery process.
Psychotherapy
Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy is rooted in the idea that talking heals. People struggling with substance abuse or mental health disorders can feel a great deal of relief sharing their experience with a trustworthy, compassionate therapist. A therapist will be able to help them find core issues and traumas that caused the disorder and can help guide them through painful memories and feelings.
Pharmaceutical Therapy
Pharmaceutical therapy such as medical-assisted treatment helps people recover from substance abuse disorders while also treating any underlying mental health issues. Medications such as mood stabilizers are often used in rehab centers because they are a useful tool to help people find emotional stability and prepare them for therapy. Medically assisted detox is also the starting point for recovery from a substance abuse disorder, which often includes prescribing medications to help people manage withdrawal symptoms. Our men and women’s rehab programs are designed to address dual-diagnosis and truly care for an individuals needs.
How We Can Help You
Ethan Crossing is a treatment center you can trust. Located in Springfield, Ohio, we offer a variety of treatment programs including dual-diagnosis treatment. We are on a mission to connect with people and guide them through every step of their recovery journeys. Our