The Benefits of Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment

For some people, substance abuse and mental health issues overlap. Experiencing substance abuse and mental health conditions at the same time is a dual diagnosis, and may also be referred to as a co-occurring disorder. 

While managing both of these conditions together can feel extremely overwhelming, and especially so if one set of symptoms intensifies the other, there are treatment options available. Integrated dual diagnosis treatment offers individuals a way of dealing with their substance abuse and mental health concerns simultaneously.

Connection Between Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Mental health conditions are closely linked to substance abuse. People often use substances as a means to handle anxiety, depressive thoughts, and / or any emotional distress that they may be feeling. 

For example, someone who is struggling with a lot of social anxiety may find themselves using alcohol because they want to feel more relaxed when in a public setting. This type of behavior can spiral into a dependence on substances, which may then lead to addiction.

While mental health issues will not necessarily lead to a substance use disorder or addiction, and substance abuse and addition may not accompany mental illness, mental health and substance use are very much connected.

An example of a mental health concern leading to addiction is treating depression by self-medicating with alcohol. As alcohol worsens symptoms of depression, such an approach may result in a raging cycle that is very hard to break.

Common examples of co-occurring disorders include:

• Alcoholism and depression 
• Stimulant abuse and anxiety disorders
• Substance misuse and bipolar disorder 
• Opiate addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder

Jackson House Recovery Centers offers an online quiz to help individuals determine if they are dealing with a co-occurring disorder. The quiz is provided to be informational and does not constitute a diagnosis of a co-occurring disorder.

The Impact of Substance Abuse on Brain Chemistry 

Substances interfere with the natural chemical balance in the brain, affecting chemical messengers such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Such effects alter the way people behave, think, and feel.

Mental health symptoms caused by substance abuse can quickly worsen, making recovery even more challenging. 

Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment

The interconnectedness of substance abuse and mental health issues gives reason to treat both conditions simultaneously to support full recovery. This simultaneous, or integrated approach, is a highly specialized way to help people recover from substance abuse disorders as well as mental conditions that accompany them. 

Unlike traditional programs that focus on substance use or mental illness alone, dual diagnosis treatment pays attention to each side of the issue. 

Effective treatment usually includes evaluations that will help to identify any underlying mental conditions. It will also likely include individual therapy geared toward addressing any co-occurring disorders.

Medication management is also involved, when appropriate, and relaxation strategies that look into mental health triggers may also come into play. Dual diagnosis treatment may also include the involvement of support systems for encouraging long-term stability.

When a treatment program begins to address both conditions together, clients will learn how to produce healthier coping mechanisms. They will also start to build resilience against any future challenges that might show up.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Jackson House

Jackson House Recovery Centers offers residential dual diagnosis treatment with an integrated approach. We are committed to providing clients with personalized care, recognizing that focusing on both conditions can lead to effective results, including a reduced chance of relapse over time.

Admissions and starting treatment

Accessing dual diagnosis residential treatment begins with a call from an individual, a loved one, or a healthcare professional. Information is then gathered to determine the status of a given situation. 

An initial assessment follows in which a determination is made as to the best way forward for an individual to receive appropriate care. If Jackson House Recovery Centers is a good fit for the needed services and the individual agrees to begin treatment at our facility, a date is set for treatment to begin. 

On the day treatment begins, admissions paperwork is handled, introductions are made, and a tour of the center is given. After an individual unpacks, treatment starts. Within the first 72 hours at the center, a psychiatrist and nurse practitioner will meet with the client to help determine an individualized recovery plan.

Our approach to wellness

At Jackson House Recovery Centers, attention is given to community connectedness, customized treatment, and nutrition. 

• Community Connectedness: Activities and combined meal preparation give residents opportunities to connect. 
• Customized Treatment: Personalized programs are framed for each client to receive individualized care.
• Nutrition: We believe healthy food is an important part of recovery.

Personalized dual diagnosis support

Our team believes everyone deserves a recovery program that pays attention to the complexity of the specific condition faced. Our approach to integrated dual diagnosis treatment includes a thorough assessment, a tailored program, collaborative planning, and a personalized action plan for each client dealing with both mental illness and substance abuse.

We understand that every client dealing with a dual diagnosis has specific circumstances. This is why, from the first consultation and through continued care from our professional and caring staff, we work closely with you to make sure your treatment reflects your specific situation.  

Reach Out for Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment

At Jackson House Recovery Centers, we are focused on providing you with first-class care, including genuine compassion from trained professionals. We want you to get support in regaining and maintaining wellness.

Reach out today to learn more about how integrated dual diagnosis treatment can help you or a loved one struggling with mental health issues and substance abuse.