Remember that seeking help for dual diagnosis is a significant step towards recovery, and finding the right treatment program that addresses both your substance use and mental health issues is crucial for long-term success.
What is Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder (SUD) in an individual simultaneously.
Dual diagnosis treatment in Sacramento, like in many other places, is designed to address the unique needs of individuals who are dealing with both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a co-occurring mental health disorder. This approach recognizes that these two conditions often interact and influence each other, making it essential to treat them simultaneously for the best chance at recovery.
At Fair Oaks Recovery Center, we are committed to addressing and treating clients who have co-occurring disorders. Fair Oaks Recovery Center greets clients without judgment and with a sincere desire to help them build new lives full of hope, purpose, and promise.
We use what we call the Whole Person Care Approach, which is designed to treat each individual–mind, body, and spirit. During their time with us at our dual diagnosis treatment facility in Sacramento, clients will be introduced to new and healthy practices and wellness techniques. Our facility also specializes in relapse prevention skills and provides expertise in addiction-free pain management treatment. Clients will benefit from a combination of traditional clinical treatment and evidence-based technologies.
Here are a few key components of a whole-person care approach for dual-diagnosis individuals:
Comprehensive Assessment: A thorough evaluation is conducted to assess not only substance use and mental health issues but also physical health, social determinants, and any other relevant factors. This assessment helps create a personalized treatment plan.
Integrated Treatment: Treatment plans are designed to address both the substance use disorder and the co-occurring mental health condition simultaneously. This integration ensures that one condition does not overshadow the other during treatment.
Multidisciplinary Team: A team of healthcare professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, addiction counselors, medical doctors, nurses, and social workers, collaborate to provide comprehensive care. This team approach ensures that all aspects of the individual’s health are addressed.
Psychotherapy: Evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing, are used to address both substance use and mental health issues. Therapy helps individuals develop coping strategies and address underlying emotional challenges.
Dual Diagnosis Education: Clients and their families are provided with education about dual diagnoses, including the interaction between substance use and mental health issues, relapse prevention, and strategies for managing symptoms.
Depression and Alcohol Use Disorders (AUDs):
Depression and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) are two distinct but often co-occurring conditions that can significantly impact an individual’s physical and mental health. The relationship between depression and AUDs is complex and bidirectional, meaning that each condition can contribute to the other, creating a cycle that can be challenging to break.
Anxiety Disorder and Prescription Drug Addiction:
Someone with an anxiety disorder may misuse prescription medications, such as benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium), in an attempt to alleviate their anxiety symptoms. This misuse can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, which can further disrupt their mental health.
Bipolar Disorder and Addiction:
Cocaine Addiction:
Individuals with bipolar disorder might misuse drugs like cocaine during manic episodes to intensify their mood, energy, and impulsivity. This behavior can result in addiction to the drug, which can complicate the management of their bipolar symptoms.
Schizophrenia and Marijuana Use
Some individuals with schizophrenia might use marijuana in an attempt to alleviate their symptoms, as some anecdotal evidence suggests it can provide temporary relief. However, marijuana use can potentially worsen psychotic symptoms and interfere with the effectiveness of antipsychotic medications.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Opioid Addiction
Individuals with PTSD, especially those who have experienced trauma, may misuse opioids to numb emotional pain and distress. This can lead to opioid dependence and pose challenges to managing their PTSD symptoms.
Eating Disorders and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD):
People with eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, might also engage in the misuse of alcohol to manage their feelings of anxiety, depression, or control. This combination can exacerbate both the eating disorder and the substance abuse issue.
The qualified and compassionate treatment team will help you or your loved one decide which options best fit your needs. Our dual-diagnosis treatment facility in Sacramento provides a supportive environment where individuals can heal and begin building a solid foundation for lasting recovery.