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Dual Diagnosis

The Pathway to a Nulife

woman in tan shirt in a dual diagnosis treatment programDual diagnosis is the term used when someone experiences a mental health disorder and substance use disorder at the same time. These disorders can interact with each other and lead to a cycle of worsening symptoms, making dual diagnosis treatment necessary.

Mental health disorders and substance abuse often go hand-in-hand. One in four adults in the United States suffer from a mental health concern, and of those, almost half also suffer from a substance use disorder. This is no coincidence—there is a strong connection between mental health and addiction. Mental health disorders can lead to self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, which in turn can worsen mental health symptoms. However, there are treatment programs that can help.

Dual diagnosis treatment is necessary to address both the addiction and the underlying mental health disorder. Without treating both, it is difficult to break the cycle of symptoms and achieve lasting recovery.

If you’re looking for effective addiction treatment, reach out to NuLife Behavioral Health today at 888.409.4775.

What Is Dual Diagnosis?

Many of those who struggle with addiction also have undiagnosed or untreated mental health disorders. Some of the most common co-occurring disorders include:

  • Anxiety disorders – People with anxiety disorders often turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. This can lead to addiction and make anxiety symptoms worse.
  • Depression – Depression is another common mental health disorder that often leads to substance abuse. Drugs and alcohol can seem to temporarily relieve the symptoms of depression, but in the long run, they will make the depression worse.
  • Bipolar disorder – Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings. People with bipolar disorder may abuse drugs or alcohol to even out their moods.
  • PTSD – PTSD can develop after a traumatic event. People with PTSD may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with the symptoms of PTSD, which can then lead to addiction.

Effective addiction and mental health treatment programs address these co-occurring disorders together. Dual diagnosis treatment programs offer support, accountability, and guidance to those who are ready to break free of the cycle of addiction and mental health disorders.

How We Treat Co-Occurring Disorders

A dual diagnosis will make treatment, recovery, and wellness more complex, resulting in a less desirable care outlook and a higher risk of adverse health effects if not treated properly. However, dual diagnosis programming can simultaneously provide treatment for both addiction and mental health issues.                                             

It’s only once your care team understand your past experiences and the roadblocks you’ve faced that they can begin to develop an effective treatment plan. This plan may include:

  • Individual therapy – Individual therapy is a key part of our dual diagnosis treatment program. In individual therapy sessions, you’ll work one-on-one with a therapist to address the underlying causes of your addiction and mental health disorder.
  • Group therapy – Group therapy provides support and accountability. In group therapy sessions, you’ll share your experiences with others who are facing similar challenges.
  • Family support – Family support is important for those with co-occurring disorders. Addiction and mental health disorders often put a strain on relationships. In family support sessions, you’ll work with a therapist to repair these relationships and develop a support system that will help you in your recovery.

In addition, holistic and evidence-based approaches like TMS therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and yoga and meditation can be included in your treatment plan.

Connect with the NuLife Behavioral Health Team Today

Ready to begin the journey to recovery? We can help. Our team of skilled professionals is here to offer support and guidance. Contact us today at 888.409.4775 to get started.