What to Expect at a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program in Hazlet, NJ

Recovering from a substance use disorder (SUD) or mental health condition can be difficult on their own. When you struggle with both at the same time, healing can feel even more out of reach. This is known as dual diagnosis, and it requires a special type of treatment that addresses both concerns simultaneously.

If you or a loved one is looking for support with co-occurring disorders in Hazlet, NJ, knowing what to expect during dual diagnosis treatment can help you feel more at ease about taking the first step toward long-term recovery. In this article, we’ll cover:

• What dual diagnosis treatment is
• Why dual diagnosis treatment is important
• How dual diagnosis treatment programs in Hazlet, NJ work
• Where to find the right dual diagnosis treatment program for you

If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, a mental health condition, or both, you don’t have to go through it alone. The team at Blue Star Recovery has the tools, experience, and resources to help you heal. Reach out whenever you feel comfortable to explore your treatment options, ask questions, or verify insurance coverage. We’re here for you each step of the way.

What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Dual diagnosis refers to a situation in which a person has both a mental health disorder and an addiction to a substance like drugs or alcohol. When these two challenges are combined, it can make treatment more complicated, as each one tends to make the other worse.

For example, someone who is struggling with alcohol use disorder might feel out of control of their life, causing them to develop depression. They may then consume more alcohol, hoping that it will make them feel better. However, this typically only creates an unhealthy cycle that pulls them deeper into substance use disorder and depression.

Anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia are just some of the mental health conditions that may exist alongside a SUD. Common substances involved in dual diagnosis include opioids, alcohol, cocaine, meth, marijuana, and others.

Dual diagnosis treatment is all about addressing both conditions together, rather than treating them as separate, unrelated concerns. Treatment providers understand the importance of an integrated approach, recognizing that treating only one disorder or the other can lead to relapse or worsening symptoms.

Why Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Important?

Many people living with a mental health disorder turn to substance use to try to manage their symptoms. While drugs and alcohol may provide temporary relief from negative feelings, they often only worsen mental health symptoms over time. This creates a cycle that is difficult to break.

Research suggests that brain changes in people with mental health disorders can make the rewarding effects of drugs or alcohol more pronounced, making it more likely that they’ll continue using. Additionally, certain substances may trigger these changes in the brain, putting the person at a higher risk of developing a mental health disorder.

Dual diagnosis treatment is important because it addresses both disorders at the same time, helping people regain control and work toward long-term wellness. Instead of being a temporary fix, these treatments cover every base, ensuring root causes and triggers are uncovered and managed accordingly.

What to Expect During Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Hazlet, NJ

A dual diagnosis treatment program in Hazlet, NJ takes a comprehensive, structured approach to treating both mental health disorders and SUDs at the same time. While every program is different, most include four key components:

Initial Evaluation

When you first enter a dual diagnosis treatment program, you’ll receive a thorough assessment so that staff can determine:

• Your history of substance use
• Your mental health history
• Any prior diagnoses
• Any relevant triggers or underlying causes of substance use disorder
• Your treatment goals

This comprehensive evaluation ensures that your treatment plan is personalized to your preferences and needs, which can make it more effective.

Integrated Treatment

The symptoms of both the SUD and the mental health disorder will be treated in a dual diagnosis program. Some of the evidence-based therapies commonly used in these programs include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps change negative thoughts and build better coping skills.
• Trauma-Informed Therapy – Helps people heal from past trauma and manage their emotions.
• Group Therapy – Offers support from others going through similar challenges.
• Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) – Improves motivation and commitment to staying sober.
• Relapse Prevention (RP) – Teaches strategies to recognize triggers and prevent relapse.

By treating the conditions together in both individual and group therapy, those with a dual diagnosis can develop stronger coping skills to maintain long-term health.

Medication Management

For some people, medications can help with recovery by managing mental health symptoms. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or mood stabilizers can keep a person’s emotions in check, helping them make healthier choices. Medications can also reduce cravings and ease discomfort for those experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Medical staff may use certain medications to keep their patients safe and comfortable.

Aftercare Planning

A dual diagnosis program in Hazlet will help you prepare for life after treatment by setting you up with an aftercare plan. This may include:

• Sober living homes
• Ongoing therapy (individual, group, and/or family)
• Support groups like AA, NA, etc.
• Coping skills to handle triggers
• Nutrition, exercise, or other wellness plans
• Relapse prevention strategies
• Medication management
• Vocational support

A personalized aftercare plan can increase your chances of success once you return home. These steps ensure that both conditions are effectively managed, reducing the risk of relapse and promoting long-term sobriety and positive mental health.

Finding the Right Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program in Hazlet, NJ

Not all treatment centers are equipped to handle dual diagnosis cases, so it’s important to do your research before choosing one. A quality program will have experienced staff, research-backed therapies, and personalized care options. Blue Star Recovery specializes in dual diagnosis treatment in Hazlet, NJ, offering compassionate, integrated care. Contact us today to see how we can support you or your loved one in your healing journey.

Resources:

• https://medlineplus.gov/dualdiagnosis.html
• https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/substance-use-and-mental-health
• https://www.purdue.edu/newsroom/archive/purduetoday/releases/2023/Q1/mental-health,-substance-use-impact-each-other.html
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5844161/