In 2021, almost half of persons aged 18 and older with a drug use disorder- defined as an uncontrolled use of a drug despite adverse consequences- also had a co-occurring mental health issue. Fortunately, treatment institutions are available to provide care and assistance for these co-occurring disorders. Indeed, over half of Houston drug rehabs offer support for patients struggling with mental health and drug use issues.
Mallard Lake Detox Center offers evidence-based treatment for those struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders via our expert dual-diagnosis treatment. This blog by our experts entails more information regarding dual diagnosis, including what it is, eligible persons, and what to expect during dual diagnosis at Mallard.
Dual Diagnosis: What is it?
The term “dual diagnosis” refers to the simultaneous occurrence of mental health and drug use disorders, sometimes termed co-occurring disorders. Dual diagnosis is the condition of being diagnosed with both a substance use problem and a mental health illness concurrently. If this characterization applies to you, you aren’t alone. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration reports that more than 8% of the U.S. population has a co-occurring drug use disorder and mental health issue.
Am I Suitable for Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
Individuals with a diagnosed mental health disorder and substance use addiction have co-occurring problems and are eligible for dual diagnosis treatment. Individuals who have not been formally confirmed to have a mental health disorder but experience psychological challenges may nonetheless qualify for dual diagnosis treatment. Clients in rehab centers are assessed for co-occurring disorders early in the treatment process. Medical practitioners conduct screenings with standardized assessment forms that have shown a high accuracy rate in identifying mental health disorders.
What Are the Signs of Dual Diagnosis?
If you suspect that you or somebody you know may be experiencing co-occurring mental health and drug use disorders, there are many prevalent signs to observe. The primary signs of dual diagnosis include:
- Frequent Mood Swings – Extreme shifts in mood, ranging from depression to anxiety.
- Increased Substance Use – Using drugs or alcohol to cope with emotional pain or mental health symptoms.
- Intense Anxiety or Panic – Overwhelming feelings of fear, worry, or panic attacks.
- Depressive Symptoms – Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or lack of interest in activities.
- Difficulty Concentrating – Struggling to focus or maintain attention on tasks.
- Impulsive or Risky Behavior – Engaging in reckless or dangerous activities while under the influence.
- Isolation – Withdrawing from family, friends, or social activities.
- Sleep Problems – Difficulty falling or staying asleep or sleeping excessively.
- Paranoia or Delusions – Feeling overly suspicious or disconnected from reality.
- Chronic Relapse – Struggling to maintain sobriety despite attempts to get clean.
If an individual displays these signs, they may be struggling with a dual diagnosis. A treatment center can assess if you or someone you love has a dual diagnosis and design a tailored recovery strategy for dual diagnosis.
What To Expect During Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Our Houston Drug Rehab
This treatment is beneficial for many individuals due to its ability to be tailored to their specific health requirements. At Mallard Lake Detox Center, we offer an extensive array of supporting services to facilitate access to this sort of treatment. This encompasses:
- Comprehensive Assessment – Evaluating your mental health and substance use history for personalized treatment.
- Medical Detox – Providing a safe, supervised withdrawal process to manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.
- Individual Therapy – One-on-one counseling sessions to address mental health and addiction challenges.
- Group Therapy – Engaging in peer support to share experiences and learn coping strategies.
- CBT Therapy – Identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to addiction.
- Medication Management – Prescribing and monitoring medications to stabilize mental health conditions.
- Holistic Therapies – Incorporating yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to support emotional well-being.
- Family Therapy – Strengthening relationships and improving communication with loved ones.
- Life Skills Training – Developing stress management, employment, and daily responsibility skills.
- Relapse Prevention – Learning strategies to maintain long-term sobriety and prevent setbacks.
An essential aspect of your care in a dual diagnosis treatment program is to address your underlying mental health concerns. This therapy is often advised for those with diagnosed or undiagnosed problems, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other mental illnesses. The program may also entail the use of medications to enhance and stabilize cerebral function. It may also include group as well as individual therapy sessions to discuss your experiences and collaborate with others on treatment.
Break Free from the Cycle of Addiction and Mental Health Struggles with Specialized Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Houston, TX!
At Mallard Lake Detox Center, our staff understands the relationship between mental health and drug and alcohol addiction. Consequently, we offer a wide array of treatment alternatives to meet diverse needs. You may be wondering, “Do I need dual diagnosis treatment?” However, do not worry yourself with the answer at this moment. We’ll assess you and determine all that. Reach out to our admissions counselor for expert assistance.
The author, Dr. David K Simson is a trained radiation oncologist specializing in advanced radiation techniques such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) / Rapid Arc, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). He is also experienced in interstitial, intracavitary, and intraluminal brachytherapy.