Half of the individuals who struggle with severe mental illness also struggle with substance use and addiction. It’s vital that these individuals get treatment for both conditions simultaneously. Dual diagnosis treatment centers can help patients in a number of critical ways, all of which combine to set the stage for lasting recovery.
Choosing Medication That Won’t Hinder Sobriety
Many patients who struggle with mental health are able to benefit from some form of prescription medication. However, it’s incredibly important not to provide people struggling with addiction a drug that could encourage relapse.
This is one of the reasons that dual diagnosis treatment is so key to recovery. When medical professionals are aware of the mental health and substance use history of patients, they can choose a medication that won’t be problematic. In particular, they can focus on drugs that aren’t addictive.
Focus on Therapy
In both addiction treatment and mental health treatment, therapy is an important component. As a result, dual diagnosis programs offer therapy that can be beneficial for patients in a number of different ways. Both behavioral therapy and group therapy target mental health as well as substance use and addiction.
Individual behavioral therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy work to change the way that patients think. Improving self esteem and focusing on positive changes to behavior has the potential to improve life. Creating healthy habits, including how to deal with stress in a safe way, can lead to countless improvements.
Group therapy is also a great way for dual diagnosis patients to work on recovery. By sharing experiences with others, it’s easier to avoid feelings of isolation. Since loneliness, guilt and shame are common, group therapy can reduce them. Doing so can be instrumental both for mental health and for recovering from an addiction. Addiction therapy and therapy for mental illness go hand in hand.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers Have a Comprehensive Approach to Wellness
In years past, some treatment centers approached recovery in what was known as sequential treatment. Essentially, patients with co-occurring disorders were treated for one condition and then the next. Unfortunately, mental health and substance use are uniquely linked. Solving them at the same time is the best way to approach this situation.
The best dual diagnosis programs understand the importance of dual treatment. With a comprehensive approach, patients get help for both conditions at the same time.
Getting medication and therapy for mental illness reduces the need to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. Lifting the depression and fog of addiction, on the other hand, can reduce the symptoms of some mental health conditions.
If you’re struggling with mental health concerns as well as addiction, dual diagnosis treatment centers are the best solution. At Pinnacle Peak Recovery in Scottsdale, Arizona, you can access a comprehensive approach to health and happiness. Call 866-377-4761 to learn more about how to start embracing the life you deserve to be living.