A dual-diagnosed person has a mental disorder and an alcohol or drug problem. About half of people who have a mental disorder will also have substance use disorder at some point in their lives and vice versa. Stories and publications about how to live with the dual diagnosis or how it is affected by it will be published soon. Telling personal stories of recovery can be one of the most effective ways to reduce stigma and help individuals and families facing challenges related to mental health conditions.
People with substance use disorders are at special risk for developing one or more primary conditions or chronic diseases. The coexistence of mental illness and substance use disorder, known as co-occurring disorder, is common among people receiving medication-assisted treatment (MAT). People with mental illness are more likely to suffer from substance use disorder than those who are not affected by mental illness. Learn all you can about your loved one's mental health problem, as well as substance abuse treatment and recovery.
An article published in Psychology Today states that “Compared to people who have a single disorder, those with a combination of disorders may experience more serious medical and mental health challenges and may also require longer treatment periods. In the case of a dual diagnosis, the structured and safe environment of an inpatient rehabilitation center can be extremely beneficial. Staff may administer decreasing amounts of the substance or its medical alternative to wean a person and lessen the effects of withdrawal. SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on communities across the United States.
Whether your mental health or substance use problem came first, long-term recovery depends on the same provider or treatment team treating both disorders. Because mental health problems are caused by a complex interplay of genetics, environment, and other factors, it's hard to say whether substance abuse ever causes them directly. After the initial examination, it may be difficult for a doctor to determine whether a person's main problem is substance abuse or a psychiatric disorder. Dealing with substance abuse, alcoholism, or drug addiction is never easy, and it's even harder when you're also struggling with mental health issues.
We understand the importance of treating mental health and substance abuse simultaneously and we specifically tailor treatment plans accordingly. Many people who are diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD) also have a co-occurring mental or behavioral condition. Dual diagnosis, also called co-occurring disorder, dual disorder, or comorbidity, means that a person has a diagnosis of both substance use disorder and mental health disorder. Going to inpatient rehabilitation for a co-occurring disorder is ideal because of the high level of care and care patients receive.
The goal of Turning Point of Tampa is to always provide a safe environment and a strong foundation in 12-step recovery, along with quality individual and group therapy. When you have a substance abuse problem and a mental health problem, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety, it's called co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis.
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