Many people living with a substance use disorder also have a mental health condition, adding an extra layer of hardship to the recovery process. These are known as co-occurring disorders, and they affect millions of kids and adults worldwide. In fact, about six in ten people with a substance use disorder also have a mental health disorder.
When both issues are present in you or a loved one’s life, it can be difficult to determine the root cause and the appropriate treatment plan. This is why a dual diagnosis program can be helpful. These programs address both aspects of a person’s life, helping them determine which symptoms appeared first and offering support from every angle. In this article, we’ll break down:
- What a dual diagnosis treatment program is
- What to expect in a dual diagnosis treatment program
- Who may benefit from a dual diagnosis program
- The benefits of dual diagnosis programs
- Where to seek help for co-occurring disorders
If you or someone close to you is struggling with both substance use and mental health concerns, you don’t have to face it on your own. Renewed Light offers compassionate dual diagnosis treatment in West Deptford, NJ, designed to address both conditions simultaneously. Contact our intake specialists today to learn more about our range of programs or to schedule a consultation.
What Is a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program?
The term “dual diagnosis” is used by mental health professionals to describe someone experiencing both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition. Dual diagnosis treatment programs exist to help people address both concerns to promote the highest chance of recovery. Common co-occurring disorders include OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
Studies show that when only one disorder or the other is treated, the likelihood of relapse goes up significantly. Therefore, these programs are essential to helping people maintain long-term sobriety and achieve lasting mental wellness. Whether the mental health disorder came before or after the substance use disorder, treating both at the same time is key to breaking the cycle.
Features of Dual Diagnosis Treatment in New Jersey
In New Jersey, dual diagnosis treatment centers offer a range of services meant to help people facing co-occurring disorders. These programs typically include:
- Assessment and diagnosis: When you’re first admitted to a dual diagnosis program, you’ll be evaluated for both substance use and mental health disorders. Depending on your diagnosis, the staff can then come up with a personalized treatment plan.
- Individual therapy: You’ll receive one-on-one therapy sessions with a licensed mental health professional to help you explore the root causes of your disorders. They can also help you develop healthy coping skills, set goals, and provide useful tips to aid in your recovery. They might use approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
- Group counseling sessions: During group counseling sessions, you’ll get the chance to talk openly with other people going through similar experiences as you. The group can offer encouragement and advice, speaking about what has helped them in their healing journeys and what has hindered them.
- Medication management: You may be prescribed medication to manage withdrawal symptoms or a mental health disorder. Psychiatrists and other trained staff will help you take your medications on time and in the correct dosages to keep you safe and comfortable.
- Aftercare planning: In order to prevent relapse, the staff will come up with an aftercare plan to help you stay on track as you return to daily life. This could include medication, therapy sessions, support groups like AA, and more. You may also receive nutritional counseling and learn how to incorporate healthy coping mechanisms like exercise mindfulness into your life.
Signs You Might Need a Dual Diagnosis Program
Recognizing your need for a dual diagnosis program is the first step toward healing. If you resonate with some or all of the following statements, you could benefit from one of these treatments:
- I have tried quitting or cutting back on my substance use, but I always end up using again, despite not wanting to.
- My responsibilities at home, work, or school are being neglected because of my substance use.
- I turn to drugs or alcohol whenever I’m experiencing overwhelming emotions like sadness, anger, or stress.
- I experience uncomfortable symptoms whenever I stop drinking or using drugs.
- My relationships with friends or family have taken a hit because of my relationship with drugs or alcohol.
- I feel unable to function without drugs or alcohol.
- I have withdrawal symptoms when stopping drugs like cocaine or fentanyl
- My financial situation has gotten worse because of my habits with drugs or alcohol.
- I have past traumas that I can’t seem to move past.
- My mental health has worsened over time, and I’m not sure whether it’s because of my substance use or another issue.
Being able to admit that you’re struggling is a sign of strength, and reaching out for help is a show of courage. If you see yourself in any of these statements, it’s possible you could benefit from a dual diagnosis program.
Finding Dual Diagnosis Treatment in West Deptford, New Jersey
Reaching out for support is one of the most important steps you can take if you’re experiencing a substance use disorder and mental illness at the same time. If you’re looking for dual diagnosis treatment in New Jersey, Renewed Light can help.
We offer customized programs and evidence-based therapies that take your individual needs and diagnoses into consideration. This means you’ll have all the tools and support you need to focus on long-term recovery.
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