June 4, 2021Tyler Collins
Dual diagnosis is a term used to identify people with co-occurring disorders of substance abuse and mental health issues. If you or someone you know has been struggling for a long time, it may be time to look into dual diagnosis treatment centers in your area. And in order to find the best dual diagnosis treatment center, it is important to have as much information as possible. You may be asking yourself several questions when looking for the best dual diagnosis treatment centers in Orange County and surrounding areas.
This post is a list of five frequently asked questions about finding and choosing a treatment center. This blog will answer these questions and provide you with valuable resources on how to find a great program. Whether you or someone close to you needs help, these answers can help guide you through this process successfully. Our goal is to provide all people with co-occurring disorders the right care they need so that they may live healthy lives free from addiction and mental illness.
How do I know if I have a co-occurring disorder?
To determine if you are likely dealing with co-occurring disorders, you should have a diagnosable mental illness while struggling with substance abuse. But it’s not always easy to know when you might have a co-occurring disorder. If you feel like something is off about how you think or act, consulting with a professional is the best course of action.
A qualified professional is generally licensed or certified to diagnose your condition and they can recommend treatment options. It’s also important to consult with a treatment center that specializes in the treatment of co-occurring disorders.
What are the common mental illnesses that could lead to a dual diagnosis?
Many Americans suffer from different mental illnesses. When coupled with a substance abuse problem, this condition can be very challenging to treat. Some of the common mental health disorders that people with substance abuse issues include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, and panic disorder.
What do you treat first, addiction or mental health?
A common question for people suffering from co-occurring disorders is what should be treated first. In a dual diagnosis, both addiction and mental health should be addressed at the same time. Addressing one without the other will have issues associated with untreated addiction and untreated mental health. It’s important to address both at the same time for them to be successfully treated.
It is also advisable to go to a dual diagnosis treatment center that will treat both conditions. If you go for separate therapies that deal with only addiction or only mental illness, this may make it more difficult, risky,and expensive in the long run. When you consult with a center that specializes in treating dual diagnosis cases, you will have to work with more than one specialist who is well-versed in treating dual diagnosis individuals but they can all work together to deliver a comprehensive treatment plan for your condition.
How are dual diagnosis patients treated?
The first step is a consultation where you will be properly diagnosed so the treatment center can determine what you need. A comprehensive treatment plan will be provided and you will be advised if you require inpatient treatment.
If you enroll in a residential treatment program, this may include drug detox, medications, individual counseling, and support group sessions. The program may also include holistic and alternative therapies like nutrition counseling, music therapy, nature therapy, yoga, meditation, and other activities that can help promote holistic treatment.
What is the difference between inpatient and residential treatment for dual diagnosis?
In essence, residential treatment for dual diagnosis is a type of inpatient treatment but the environment is where it differs. Inpatient treatment usually refers to a hospital setting while the environment in a residential facility is more homelike. Most residential programs are created using the model of an actual home. While many of the same rules apply, there is a little more freedom in terms of what is allowed to do and on the structure of the patient’s routine.
At the Lighthouse Treatment Center, for instance, we offer a more individualized treatment plan for dual diagnosis cases, smaller populations with better staff to patient ratio as well as chef-cooked meals, alternative therapies, holistic activities, and a family-style atmosphere.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues, help is available.
Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center today.
