Why is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Important?
Addiction is when a person engages in compulsive substance use despite known harmful consequences. They are unable to stop on their own. They’ve lost power over the substance—it now controls them.
It is common for people to suffer from both addictions and mental health issues. In the United States, approximately 8.9 million people have both mental health and a substance abuse issues. This is referred to as dual disorders. And this is why dual diagnosis treatment is so important.
Of people struggling with dual disorders, more than half don’t receive treatment for either disorder. If you or someone you love is struggling, don’t hesitate. Get help. Speak confidentially with a certified counselor now, call (888) 837-6577.
In cases of dual disorders, which came first? Did mental illness cause the addiction, or was the addiction a contributing factor to the mental illness? There isn’t a definitive answer. What is clear is that the two often coexist, each complicating the other.
The Relationship Between Addiction and Mental Illness
There is correlation. A recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) study demonstrated that those who struggled with mental health issues abused drugs and/or alcohol at more than double the rate of the general public.
People who suffer with mental illness may attempt to self-medicate their symptoms with drugs and/or alcohol. When the high wears off, however, the symptoms of their mental issues return, amplified, more pronounced than they were before.
People with an addiction aren’t thinking clearly. There are chemical changes going on in the brain that cause cravings for the substance to intensify. And with every use it gets harder and harder to stop. Brain imaging has shown these brain changes, and how they impair judgment, decision making, memory and behavior.
Here is what is known:
- Common risk factors can contribute to both mental illness and substance use and addiction.
- Mental illness may contribute to substance use and addiction.
- Substance use and addiction can contribute to the development of mental illness.
We want to help. Honey Lake Clinic’s dual diagnosis program offers specialized, integrated treatment for patients who are suffering from both addictions and mental health issues.
Honey Lake Clinic’s Dual Diagnosis Program is unique, offering specialized, integrated treatment
for patients who are suffering from both addictions and mental health issues. Our treatment program will bring wholeness, healing, and restoration to your life.
Honey Lake Clinic’s holistic program treats each client on three different levels:
Spiritual: Helping you grow closer to God, apply His truths, and discern His will for you.
Psychological: Teaching decision-making skills to help you cope with underlying struggles.
Physical: Using therapy and medication, if needed, to re-circuit or renew your mind.
The individualized treatment by our highly trained staff at Honey Lake is complemented by a supportive, healing environment that is conducive for a complete transformation of your mind, body, and spirit.
