A large population of the world today is fighting dual-diagnosis, which tends to affect the vulnerable population. Dual-diagnosis patients suffer from both mental disorders and substance abuse. An example is individuals battling alcohol addiction and depression, or simultaneously drug abuse and personality disorder.
The main challenge is the financial implication related to dual-diagnosis, which hinders the majority of the patients from accessing the treatment. As a result, some experts suggest that governments should chip in to support the individuals who cannot access the necessities of dual diagnosis. However, it is essential to understand more about the condition. Here are some facts you need to know that may make your check-in at a dual diagnosis treatment center like The Edge Treatment.
It Is Very Common
Dual diagnosis is common among many people, some of whom may not be aware. A mixture of depression signs like sadness or nervousness with a compulsive desire for alcohol, drugs, or gambling qualifies an individual as a dual diagnosis patient. Research shows that approximately half of the people battling alcohol addiction have a mental illness. Similarly, a person with a mental disorder such as anxiety or bipolar may be abusing substances.
It may be challenging to identify such cases as it takes a timeframe for the signs to manifest fully. Therefore, if you suspect you or your loved one might be a victim, it is better to visit a dual diagnosis treatment center for confirmation.
Certain Mental Disorders Align with Specific Substances
It is a co-occurring disorder. Some mental illnesses align with particular substance abuse. For example, alcoholism and panic disorder, major depression and cocaine, drug obsession, and schizophrenia are all co-occurring disorders.
The signs of the co-occurring disorder include reduced appetite, sleep disruption, depression, self-isolation, memory lapse, among others. If you experience these symptoms, it will help to visit a dual diagnosis treatment center to be assessed.
Most Common Mental Disorders Are Associated with Substance Abuse
Mental disorder patients are most likely to suffer substance addictions. Some mental disorders associated with substance abuse include anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, personality disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Study shows that most mental illness patients, especially depression, cannot resist substance abuse like alcoholism.
Medical Detox Is Just a Beginner Step in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
When you learn from a dual diagnosis treatment center that you have a dual diagnosis disorder, know that detoxification is just the first step. It is for clearing the body from toxic substances resulting from the abused drug but does not treat the condition. You have to resolve the underlying mental disorder before treating addiction.
Dual Diagnosis Condition Demands Dual Diagnosis Treatment
While this sounds common sense, most dual diagnosis patients address addiction and ignore the underlying mental illness. For instance, the 12-step approach works for many people, but it is not a therapeutic program. The 12 steps are effective in addiction, but they do not treat mental problems like bipolar, major depression, or anxiety.
Most Rehabs Claiming to Treat Dual Diagnosis Do Not Provide the Services
Some rehab centers will claim to treat dual-diagnosis to lure more customers in and gain profits. Before signing up to start therapy, research to ensure that the dual diagnosis treatment center you are joining has all it takes to handle your situation.
A Final Thought
Do not give up quickly if you are searching for a dual diagnosis treatment program and your efforts are not yielding fruit. Furthermore, do not fall for the first option that comes your way. If you have to check outside your city, it may be worth the effort.
