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Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, is a condition where an individual simultaneously battles a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder (SUD). This overlap can significantly complicate treatment, making it necessary to address both disorders simultaneously to achieve adequate recovery.
For instance, treating a substance use disorder while neglecting the underlying mental health condition often leads to relapses since the root cause remains unresolved. SAMHSA’s 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health revealed that around 9.2 million adults in the US have a co-occurring disorder. Unfortunately, the majority of these individuals do not receive the comprehensive treatment necessary for both conditions.
Individuals with depression often resort to substances like alcohol as a means of self-medication, leading to alcoholism.
People with bipolar disorder may use substances to manage their mood swings, often leading to drug or alcohol addiction.
Individuals with BPD are often found to struggle with substance use disorders, primarily because of their intense emotional experiences and impulsivity.
Schizophrenia and cannabis abuse often occur together, presenting significant challenges to treatment and recovery.
PTSD is often associated with substance misuse, especially alcohol, and opioids, as individuals attempt to cope with their trauma-related symptoms.
ADHD and stimulant misuse, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, frequently coexist.
Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder, frequently co-occur with misuse of substances such as benzodiazepines.
Our journey with patients often begins with alcohol and drug detoxification. It’s a medically supervised process that helps individuals safely withdraw from the substances they have been using. Detoxification serves to minimize the potentially severe health effects of sudden cessation of use and to prepare the body and mind for the subsequent steps in the recovery process.
After successful detoxification, patients move into the residential inpatient phase of treatment. Here, they receive 24/7 care and support, participate in various therapeutic activities, and begin learning how to live a life of sobriety. The controlled, supportive environment of residential rehab can significantly boost the chances of successful recovery, offering individuals the space to focus solely on their health and well-being. Other options for treatment can include outpatient programs if residential is not an option for individuals.
We employ various therapeutic techniques through our treatment model to help individuals cope with their mental health conditions and establish healthier behavior patterns. Therapies such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and group therapy allow individuals to delve into the psychological and emotional aspects of their disorders. Our treatment programs also incorporate holistic methods to promote overall well-being. Mindfulness techniques, art therapy, yoga, and nutrition counseling are just a few of the approaches we utilize. These activities help patients to rebuild their physical health, develop new hobbies and coping mechanisms, and learn how to manage stress and cravings in a healthy, constructive way.
Dr. Moses Nasser, a double board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, with expertise in holistic healing, addiction medicine, and psychiatric care, holds an X-waiver to prescribe buprenorphine and has extensive experience in mindfulness-based customer service and medication-assisted treatment.
