By definition, a co-occurring disorder is a condition whereby you experience mental-related illnesses and substance use disorders at the same time. Dual diagnosis occurs in different forms when any mental illness (such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis) combines with an addiction (such as an alcohol use disorder). The importance of dual diagnosis treatment is evident for people who are struggling with multiple mental health illnesses.
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Assessment for a Dual Diagnosis
When you seek medical attention, the mental health expert will request a clinical evaluation to establish if your condition is a dual diagnosis. The health personnel will consider several essential factors to ensure an accurate diagnosis. They’ll study the information to determine whether the symptoms of your condition indicate an underlying psychiatric or substance use disorder.
The mental health expert will determine whether you’re self-motivated to go to a rehabilitation center. Also, the rehab center will aim to find out if you’ve recently been violent or aggressive, consequently posing a danger to you or those around you.
Common Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis
Since dual diagnosis is a combination of different conditions, its symptoms vary from one individual to another. Thus, it’s challenging to differentiate the conditions using the symptoms alone. However, there are several common symptoms to look out for, such as:
- Withdrawal of individuals from most aspects of their social lives
- Extreme behavioral changes, such as one becoming more aggressive than usual
- Over-reliance on prescription drugs or other illicit substances to function
- Uncontrollable use of substances
- Severe symptoms of mental health illnesses
- Severe depression
The Importance of Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Rehab
For the best results, you must seek dual diagnosis treatment in rehab. Once the therapist establishes that your underlying conditions qualify to be a dual diagnosis, it’s advisable to find an inpatient treatment program to start your recovery journey. It’s worth noting that the treatment process is complex and challenging, but with proper attention, support, and appropriate medication, individuals can fully recover.
In rehab, therapists will offer you a customized treatment plan created from a combination of several treatment programs, such as:
- Medically-assisted detox therapy
- Telehealth intensive outpatient program
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy program
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
- Individual therapy
- Partial hospitalization program
- 12 Step program
Tips for Choosing the Best Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program
The importance of dual diagnosis treatment can only be realized when you choose an ideal rehab center. When selecting a facility, it’s advisable to consider several crucial factors. For example, it’s mandatory to choose a facility that values confidentiality so that you can struggle with your recovery in privacy. The law requires all rehabs to treat your privacy as a top priority.
Another factor is the location of the facility. Depending on the treatment method you’ll choose, the location of your recovery facility is vital. If you opt for an outpatient treatment program, you need a facility that is near your area of residence.
The payment options for rehab services is another critical consideration. Check whether your selected facility has an accreditation from your insurance carrier before embarking on treatment.
The Takeaway
The best treatment strategy for dual diagnosis is the intervention method, which involves giving care to both psychiatric and substance abuse disorders. After diagnosis, the therapist will attempt to establish how your conditions affect each other to enhance treatment.
At Northern Illinois Recovery Center, we understand the importance of dual diagnosis treatment for a comprehensive treatment solution. Our team of mental health experts will create a customized treatment plan for all your co-occurring disorders to restore you to a healthy life. Don’t let mental health disorders ruin your life. Contact us today at 855.786.1978 to get started on your recovery journey.
Licensed Physician and Surgeon
Dr. Beth Dunlap, a board-certified addiction medicine and family medicine physician, and is the medical director at Northern Illinois Recovery Center. She is responsible for overseeing all the integrated medical services at both campuses. Beth completed medical school, residency, and fellowship at Northwestern University, where she continues to serve on the faculty as a member of the Department of Family and Community Medicine. She has extensive experience in addiction medicine at all levels of care, and her clinical interests include integrated primary care and addiction medicine, harm reduction, and medication-assisted treatment.
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