A Guide to Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Addicts

Dual diagnosis refers to someone who has both a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health disorder. Receiving proper treatment that addresses both disorders together leads to better outcomes for the patient. Here is an overview of dual diagnosis and how treatment can help those struggling with addiction and mental illness.

Understanding Dual Diagnosis

It’s estimated that over half of people struggling with addiction also have a mental health disorder. Some common co-occurring disorders include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Mental health conditions can contribute to substance abuse, and chronic drug or alcohol use can then exacerbate mental health symptoms.

When someone has a dual diagnosis, treating just one condition while ignoring the other will be ineffective. The disorders feed into each other. Integrated treatment that targets both the addiction and mental illness together has been shown to produce better results.

Components of Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Successful dual diagnosis programs rely on a team approach with collaboration between mental health professionals, addiction specialists, and other providers. Treatment components may include:

• Evaluation and assessment – A thorough evaluation identifies the mental health and addiction issues and any other factors contributing to the disorders. This information guides the creation of a personalized treatment plan.
• Medical stabilization – Many patients first go through a medically managed detox to safely clear drugs or alcohol from their system. Medical supervision manages withdrawal symptoms.
• Psychotherapy – Different types of therapy help patients address thought patterns, behaviors, underlying issues, coping mechanisms, and motivation for recovery. Common approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and motivational interviewing.
• Medication – Prescription medications may be used to help manage withdrawal, prevent relapse, or treat psychiatric symptoms. Medications are prescribed by a psychiatrist or dual diagnosis doctor.
• Case management – Case managers coordinate care between all providers, help with access to community resources, and assist with issues like transportation and housing that support recovery.
• Aftercare planning – The treatment team works with patients to develop a plan for ongoing care after finishing the program, like 12-step programs, support groups, outpatient treatment, sober living homes, and follow-up appointments.

Additional therapies such as art therapy, music therapy, equine therapy, and adventure therapy can also be incorporated into treatment to help patients express themselves in a healthy way. Holistic treatments like yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and nutritional counseling may also complement traditional treatment methods. Dual diagnosis programs can be customized with various therapies based on each patient’s needs and preferences.

Benefits of Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Research shows integrated treatment leads to lower substance use rates, improved mental health, increased treatment retention, and reduced hospitalizations. By addressing both disorders at the same time, patients are given the tools to manage symptoms and maintain sobriety over the long term. With proper treatment, those with a dual diagnosis can go on to live fulfilling, stable lives in recovery. The integrated approach has proven more effective than treating just one disorder independently from the other.

If you or someone you love struggles with addiction and mental illness, specialized dual diagnosis treatment can help pave the path to healing.