Dual diagnosis treatment provides treatment for addiction and mental health disorders at the same time. Until the last few decades, treatment facilities addressed substance use disorder and mental health disorders separately. It’s now clear that effective treatment addresses both issues at the same time. To learn about the benefits of dual diagnosis treatment, contact Bayview Recovery today at 855.478.3650.

History of Dual Diagnosis

In the past, co-occurring disorders received treatment separately. Treatment professionals were aware that the two often overlap, but they believed they needed to address them one at a time. Mental health programs would often deny those who had a substance use disorder.

They frequently attributed the mental health problems to addiction. Drug rehabs could treat the addiction, but they weren’t qualified to treat the mental disorder. Those in treatment would struggle to remain sober because they were often using drugs to cope with the underlying psychological condition. It was a vicious cycle that left many without the help that they needed to recover.

The Dual Diagnosis Difference

According to treatment professionals, there are significant amounts of overlap between mental health conditions and addictions. Mental disorders can cause someone to use drugs to self medicate and develop an addiction, contributing to mental health problems. Others may begin using for other reasons but struggle with mental health due to their addiction.

Dual diagnosis treatment addresses these co-occurring disorders together. No matter which came first, those with addiction often struggle with both. To successfully recover, you need to address both conditions.

Mental health disorders that are commonly treated in dual diagnosis programs include:

• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Anxiety disorders
• Personality disorders
• Schizophrenia

How Do You Get a Dual Diagnosis Disorder?

To receive a dual diagnosis treatment, you must have a qualifying mental health disorder and an addiction. This classification includes both substance use addictions and behavioral addictions. If you believe you have co-occurring conditions, you can have an assessment at an addiction treatment center in Kent, WA. You will meet with a qualified mental health professional who can diagnose if you meet the diagnostic criteria.

Many people find that receiving a diagnosis brings relief. If you have struggled with an undiagnosed mental health disorder, it can give you hope. Understanding what is causing the issue is the first step to effective treatment.

How Does Dual Diagnosis Treatment Look?

Dual diagnosis treatment will have a focus on addiction treatment and mental health. You will work with a team of professionals to address all of your treatment needs.

In addition to standard drug addiction treatment, therapy plays a vital role in dual diagnosis. These therapies can include psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and group therapy.

Psychoactive drugs were once believed to hinder addiction recovery. Treatment professionals thought that proper recovery meant freedom from any mind-altering substance. Now the value of drugs as part of mental health treatment is understood. Treatment professionals may use antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications during and after treatment for mental health conditions.

It’s also important to feel supported and encouraged during recovery. Dealing with dual diagnosis treatment can be challenging, but a safe and supportive environment is essential to success. Learning to understand your diagnosis without shame or guilt can aid your recovery.

Focus on Family

Addiction doesn’t occur in a vacuum. Addiction also impacts your family members, meaning that families often benefit from family therapy. This can provide a greater understanding of addiction and the struggles their loved one experiences, creating compassion and forgiveness. It also provides a safe place to work through interpersonal issues.

Family dynamics are often dysfunctional when a family member is an addict. Stabilizing the familial relationships makes your recovery much easier for everyone involved.

Dual Diagnosis at Bayview Recovery Center

At Bayview Recovery Center, we provide residents of Kent, WA, and the surrounding area, with compassionate and effective treatment for addiction and mental health disorders. Recovery is possible with the right addiction treatment program. Contact us today at 855.478.3650 to begin your recovery journey.