The term “Dual Diagnosis” is used when a patient or individual has an underlying mental health issue and a substance abuse disorder simultaneously. Often, addictive behavior can be linked to (and even exacerbate) mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and even schizophrenia.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration asserts that nearly 9 million people have a co-occurring disorder and that only about 7% of these individuals get the treatment they need for both conditions. Nearly 60% receive no treatment at all.

For those typing “dual diagnosis treatment centers near me” in their search bars looking for answers and avenues to get treatment or even advice, it’s important to know the differences between these types of treatment centers versus your more generalized addiction treatment centers.

How Do I Find the Right Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers Near Me?

It should be somewhat comforting to know that we understand mental illness and addiction far more these days than any other previous generation. For those experiencing co-occurring disorders, it’s important to get treated for the addiction as well as the underlying mental illness, if applicable. This will make the recovery in question far more likely to be successful, not to mention lasting.

Drug and alcohol use can exacerbate mental health issues, so it’s important to seek treatment immediately if you believe you are suffering from both conditions at the same time. There is no time to waste when it comes to your physical and mental health, which might both be in jeopardy.

Dual Diagnosis vs. Traditional Rehab Centers

While traditional drug and alcohol rehab centers will sometimes incorporate routines and practices that help patients reduce anxiety, depression, insomnia, etc., this doesn’t mean that they can call themselves dual diagnosis treatment centers.

Common symptoms for dual diagnosis include:

  • Sadness/Depression
  • Hopelessness
  • Mild to Severe Mood Swings 
  • Relationship Problems
  • At-Risk Behaviors
  • Flashbacks of Traumatic Events
  • Mental Confusion
  • Poor Mental and Physical Health
  • Isolation from Family and Friends
  • Lack of Engagement/Employment/Stability
  • Increased Risk for Homelessness
  • Suicidal Thoughts

While many facilities might claim to be able to assist with addiction and mental health issues, the reality is most do not have doctors (or even the staff) who possess the training, certification, and credentials required to be considered a dual diagnosis recovery center. 

Make sure that the recovery center you choose has the capabilities to treat mental health issues as well as a robust addiction treatment program, especially for the most commonly abused substances (alcohol, heroin, prescription drugs, cocaine, crystal meth, etc.). 

Early detection and receiving effective treatment for both conditions at the same time can greatly improve a patient’s likelihood of experiencing real recovery and regaining a significantly higher quality of life. 

However, receiving treatment is going to be an uphill battle regardless. It’s important to be more persistent than the addiction and the disorder for a patient to be able to take their life back. A more sane and sober life is something that a patient will have to work for.