Mental health problems frequently occur in people with substance abuse disorders, and vice versa. This is known as “co-morbidity,” “co-occurring disorders,” or “dual diagnosis.” It is not the same as having two unrelated problems; rather, the disorders are connected since they both include emotional and behavioral issues that typically worsen one another. Having two diagnoses can make life very difficult.
It can seem like there is never enough time to overcome the challenges of dual diagnosis. However, finding calm in the chaos is possible with the correct treatment options and available help. For example, Tennessee is well-known for offering various addiction treatment programs and recovery alternatives for its residents. It has an elaborate healthcare program called TennCare, providing core health services and quality assistance for those in need. So, with all of this in mind, let’s see what are the challenges of dual diagnosis and how to overcome them.
Top 5 Ways to Overcome the Challenges of Dual Diagnosis
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A person who receives a dual diagnosis has been diagnosed with a mental health illness and a substance use problem. These illnesses frequently co-exist and can make one another worse. For instance, someone suffering from depression could use alcohol or drugs as a form of self-medication, which could result in addiction. However, substance misuse can also contribute to or exacerbate mental health conditions, including anxiety or psychosis.
The symptoms of mental health illnesses and addiction often overlap and mix, making it challenging to identify the underlying reason for some behaviors. This is one of the fundamental problems with dual diagnosis. Due to its complexity, treatment must take a careful and coordinated approach.
Get a Comprehensive Diagnosis of Your Co-Occurring Disease
The first step in fostering resilience and receiving treatment for an addiction co-morbid condition is getting a diagnosis. A person can only acquire a dual diagnosis if specific diagnostic criteria are met, such as:
- A past of drug misuse that has a direct and detrimental influence on their relationships, employment, family, and health.
- Meets the requirements for a mental illness.
- The potential to endanger themselves or other people (such as by contemplating suicide or operating a vehicle while intoxicated).
When you show these symptoms and have an urge to get help and detox, doctors and other highly skilled medical professionals can tell you’re ready for treatment. Additionally, they are better equipped to design a treatment plan that suits you if they have as much information as possible regarding the co-existing disease. A psychiatrist can provide you with your diagnosis. Seek assistance from your general practitioner or the local health agency if you don’t know where to start.
Become Aware of the Causes of Co-Occurring Disorders
Why do people with addiction frequently suffer from another disorder alongside their addiction? As per the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), around one-third of individuals with mental illnesses and half of those with severe mental illnesses also abuse drugs or alcohol. These figures are consistent with the substance abuse community, where over half of the drug abusers and over one-third of alcohol abusers report having a mental disorder. Compared to women, men are more prone to get a co-occurring disorder.
The co-occurrence of addiction and mental illness is not a cause-and-effect relationship. Many factors contribute to the different causation:
- Abusing drugs can result in the manifestation of one or more mental health disorders. For example, marijuana users are more likely to experience psychosis.
- Abusing prescriptions as a form of self-medication might result from mental illness.
- A dual diagnosis may result from overlapping variables like stress and heredity.
Seek Appropriate Treatment Plan for Your Dual Diagnosis
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Not every drug treatment center is the same, particularly for those who also have multiple disorders. Finding a secure environment with a comprehensive treatment plan that can take care of all of the challenges of dual diagnosis is essential. The brain under stress from addiction and other illnesses is a subject of ongoing scientific study, leading to the development of novel therapeutics. Healthcare providers can treat dual disorders in a few different ways.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Reduces unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors is the main goal of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy technique is efficacious for those suffering from mood disorders, including depression. The intention is to change negative ideas into messages of positivity. Additionally, it looks for constructive and successful stress-reduction techniques as opposed to drug usage. Individual psychotherapy can be used in conjunction with this or as a follow-up.
Medication
While misusing drugs is unacceptable, utilizing prescription drugs to treat a dual condition can be. These include medications like antidepressants, anxiolytics, and antipsychotics for mood disorders. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are another class of drugs that are frequently administered. These medications, which include Zoloft, Celexa, and Prozac, work by raising serotonin levels in the brain to balance out chemical imbalances.
Group treatment
Individuals with dual diagnoses may find great benefit from group treatment. Members receive education about their specific diagnosis categories. Groups are given the freedom to collaborate, inspire, and offer criticism. By overcoming a shared obstacle with others, the group members gain confidence and self-worth and strengthen their relationships.
Individual psychotherapy
Talk therapy and counseling are additional names for psychotherapy. Here, the patient and therapist work together to make adjustments that will enhance their quality of life. This is a secure space to discuss personal issues and healing obstacles. This treatment is far more extensive. Substance addiction and dual diagnosis are not the only topics covered. The therapist will also work with patients on self-esteem, courage, compassion, and love to address the patient’s general well-being.
Recognize the Significance of Sobriety for Mental Health
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Addiction disrupts stability and makes it harder to address mental health issues. Achieving sobriety is crucial to building a healthier lifestyle and improving mental health. Once you break free from addiction, it’s important to establish new, positive habits. This might include rediscovering hobbies you’ve neglected or, with your doctor’s approval, starting to improve your diet and exercise routine.
A necessary prelude to finding sobriety is doing so in a supportive environment. As previously stated, Tennessee is a great example of a state offering mental health facilities with comprehensive care for residents with mental health issues and co-occurring disorders. One such institution is Time Wellness Tennessee, a facility with valuable resources designed to support individuals dealing with mental health challenges through comprehensive, evidence-based treatment plans. They offer numerous programs aimed at assisting those struggling with addiction, which can significantly impact their mental health positively.
Not sure where to begin? Beneficial daily routines are:
- Sleeping during the entire night
- Preparing meals
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Perusing
- Cooking
- Organizing your house
- Having family time
- Interacting socially with other recuperating pals
Acknowledge That You Are Not By Yourself With Your Dual Diagnosis
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As previously said, around one-third of all individuals with mental illness also deal with substance abuse. You are not alone. There are methods to socialize even when putting in a lot of effort in overcoming the challenges of dual diagnosis:
- Spend time with individuals who understand what you’re going through, and join a support group. It’s essential to talk to others about your struggles and get guidance from others who are in recovery. Furthermore, it’s a pleasant spot to spend the weekends instead of going out with pals and maybe abusing drugs.
- Look up your community on the internet, such as Peer-Driven Community. Social media platforms are an excellent means of making friends who are clean and in recovery wherever in the world. Avoid seeking romantic connections with anyone.
- Rediscover who you are. When you use drugs, you are not YOU. Living sober allows you to build a relationship with yourself first and foremost. Develop a joy for working independently. Visit the movies, go shopping, or go to a sober social gathering. Before anyone else can, you must first enjoy your own company.
- Contribute to your community. Invest time in learning how you can assist others. Even if you might not be prepared to assist with sponsoring someone in recovery just yet, you can still improve your neighborhood by picking up rubbish or planting a tree.
Final Words
Overcoming the challenges of dual diagnosis requires patience, tenacity, and help. A robust support network and appropriate therapy can help people overcome the difficulties associated with having two diagnoses and make a long-lasting recovery. You’re not alone. To begin the road to a happier and better life, contact a reputable treatment facility or healthcare provider.
Author’s Bio
Chloe Petruzzo is a dedicated professional in the Mental Health Treatment field, with over seven years of experience and a strong foundation rooted in a Bachelor’s degree in social work. Through her innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing the admissions process and expanding organizational reach, Chloe plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to mental health care and promoting positive change.
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Find out the best ways to overcome the challenges of dual diagnosis, and keep in mind that you are not alone.
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Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6876494/
https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Common-with-Mental-Illness/Substance-Use-Disorders
https://phoenixrehabservices.com/dual-diagnosis-and-how-to-overcome-the-challenges/
