What Conditions Can a Dual Diagnosis Program Treat?

Millions of people in the United States live with substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health condition. Mental health and medical professionals may refer to this combination of conditions as a “dual diagnosis.” 

Individuals with a dual diagnosis require specialized treatment plans to address their conditions effectively. Evidence-based treatment plans for mental health disorders and a substance use disorders include medical care, supervised detox programs, education, and more. 

This article will explore what conditions a dual diagnosis program may treat. You will learn:

• What it means to have a dual diagnosis
• What to expect in dual diagnosis treatment programs
• How to find a dual diagnosis treatment center
• Where to find a program to treat SUD and mental health conditions simultaneously

If you or someone you love requires professional support to treat co-occurring disorders, you are not alone. Find effective programs that support long-term recovery at Blue Star Recovery. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our substance use and mental health programs. You may also contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment. 

What is a Dual Diagnosis?

A dual diagnosis is a term describing the diagnosis of a mental illness and substance use disorder (SUD). People with a dual diagnosis may have SUD and a mental health condition, including:

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

Signs of substance use disorder (SUD) include:

• Developing tolerance to drugs or alcohol
• Having cravings for drugs or alcohol
• Spending a lot of time and energy getting substances or engaging in substance use
• Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or hobbies because of substance use
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop using a substance
• Losing control over your substance use
• Continuing to use drugs or alcohol even when it causes significant harm to your health, functioning, or relationships

Individuals with co-occurring disorders may face additional challenges in overcoming these conditions. Mental health conditions can contribute to the development of SUD. Substance misuse can also prevent people from effectively managing their mental health symptoms. 

An estimated 17 million Americans had a co-occurring substance use disorder and mental health condition in 2020. 

People with a dual diagnosis require specialized treatment programs to address both conditions simultaneously. Contact Blue Star Recovery to learn more about dual diagnosis treatment or to explore your treatment options. 

What Conditions Can a Dual Diagnosis Program Treat?

Here are some common conditions that dual diagnosis programs are equipped to treat:

1. Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the U.S., affecting about 21 million Americans. Depression goes beyond feeling sad. It’s a deep, ongoing low mood that makes daily life hard. People struggling with depression might turn to drugs or alcohol to cope, which can worsen both problems.

2. Anxiety Disorders

Constant worry, panic attacks, or social fear are common signs of anxiety disorders. Many people use substances to calm their nerves, but this can lead to dependency and greater anxiety over time. Up to 19% of Americans experience some type of anxiety disorder each year.

3. Bipolar Disorder

This condition involves extreme mood swings from high-energy “highs” (manic episodes) to deep “lows” (depressive episodes). Substances may be used to try to manage these swings, but they often make bipolar disorder symptoms more severe and harder to control.

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD can happen after someone experiences a scary or life-threatening event. Flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety can lead people to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to escape painful memories. Studies have found that as high as 46% of people with PTSD meet the criteria for a substance use disorder.

5. Schizophrenia

This is a serious mental health disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts. People with schizophrenia may use substances in an attempt to manage confusing or distressing symptoms.

6. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

BPD can cause intense emotions, unstable relationships, and impulsive actions. Many people with BPD use substances to try to handle emotional pain or stress.

7. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Adults with untreated ADHD often struggle with focus, restlessness, and impulsive behavior. Some may use substances to help them feel calmer or more focused, which can quickly become a problem.

8. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD causes unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Substances might be used to try to block these thoughts or calm the urge to perform rituals, but this often backfires.

What Happens in Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Dual diagnosis treatment programs combine high-quality SUD treatment therapies and intensive mental health care. Here is an overview of what to expect in a dual diagnosis treatment program. 

Assessments and screenings

Dual diagnosis treatment programs may include comprehensive screenings and diagnostic testing. This can ensure proper diagnosis and effective treatment planning. 

Detox programs

Many people begin SUD treatment in a medically supported detox program. Detox may include medications to manage withdrawal, supervision, holistic therapies, and mental health support. 

Psychoeducation

Dual diagnosis treatment may include education and support groups. People learn new coping skills and relapse prevention strategies. They also receive accurate information about substance use, recovery, and aftercare planning. 

Mental health therapies

Dual diagnosis treatment plans may include specialized counseling or behavioral therapies. People may engage in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), or other targeted mental health interventions. These therapies can help people understand and manage their mental health conditions effectively. 

People may engage in individual, group, or family therapy throughout treatment. 

Holistic therapies

Dual diagnosis programs may include holistic therapies. Yoga, nutrition support, acupuncture, and mindfulness can soothe the mind and body. Engaging in holistic therapies can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being for people in recovery. 

Aftercare planning

After leaving a dual diagnosis treatment program, people must stay active in managing SUD and mental health conditions. During treatment, people work with staff members to create an effective aftercare plan. A plan might include sober living, community mental health support, additional treatment, and other supportive activities. 

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn about our dual diagnosis programs or schedule an intake appointment. 

How to Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment 

Dual diagnosis treatment can help people manage SUD and mental health conditions more effectively. They provide intensive, evidence-based therapies that address the roots of these conditions. 

If you live with a dual diagnosis, finding treatment is critical. There are several ways to find a dual diagnosis treatment program near you. You may:

• Search the Internet for dual diagnosis treatment programs near you
• Contact your insurance company to find local dual diagnosis treatment centers
• Ask a medical or mental health professional to refer you to a treatment program
• Contact the Blue Star Recovery team for assistance in finding the correct type of treatment

Blue Star Recovery offers high-quality, comprehensive treatment for mental health conditions and substance use disorder. Reach out to our intake team with questions about our programs. 

Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment Now

If you or someone you love needs dual diagnosis treatment, you are not alone. Find the treatment, support, and resources you need at Blue Star Recovery. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule your first appointment. 

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Co-Occurring Disorders and Health Conditions
2. NIH: Major Depression
3. NIH: Any Anxiety Disorder
4. NIH: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Co-Occurring Substance Use Disorders: Advances in Assessment and Treatment