Importance Of Dual Diagnosis Therapy Centers

July 7, 2012 0 Comments

Dual diagnosis pertains to the simultaneous, coordinated treatment of individuals with both psychological illness and substance abuse issues. Many people need this particular treatment based on the findings from the Journal of the American Medical Association which shows around fifty percent of people with severe mental problems are affected by substance abuse. Of all people diagnosed with mental illness, 29% abuse either alcohol or drugs. This simply means that there are indeed a big number of individuals who suffer from both mental illness and substance abuse. These people suffer from co-occurring disorders.

The combination of the mental disorder plus the substance/drug abuse would be a viable reason to diagnose co-occurring disorder. The addiction was developed over time as a result from treatment of the earlier problem. This issue can be seen on the big picture but when one concentrates only on the mental condition, the remedy would always be using medication. Medications are helpful but when taken abusively, the patient becomes addicted and bigger problems occur.

Occasionally, individuals who suffer from co-occurring disorders are also known as Mentally Ill Chemical Abusers or MICA. Common examples of co-occurring disorders include the combinations of anxiety disorder and alcoholism and major depression and cocaine addiction. There are rehabilitation facilities that specialize in this kind of disorder. Facilities like dual diagnosis treatment centers provide treatment to people suffering from Co-occuring disorders. The program is centered on the simultaneous treatment of both mental disorder and addiction.

In most cases, detoxification and assessment are the primary steps performed by drug treatment programs. However, it goes beyond counseling and medication. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the US Department of Health and Human Services recommends integrated treatment of people with co-occurring disorders. This form of treatment coordinates substance abuse and mental health interventions to treat the whole person effectively.

Support for dual diagnosis is increasing and it has been acclaimed for its fine results. The federal government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration says that patients have a much better chance of rehabilitation when both problems are remedied by the same clinician or treatment team. There’s hope for individuals suffering from co-occurring conditions. Better results is expected with dual diagnosis when there is great support from people who care and love those who experience co-occurring conditions.

So, if you’re looking for a treatment center for yourself or for someone close to you, always consider the facts mentioned above. It is essential that you undergo a thorough assessment when choosing what’s best for you.

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