What Is Dual Diagnosis?
If you’ve ever posed the question, “What is dual diagnosis”, you’re not alone. When it comes to rehabilitation, this area often causes confusion due to the conflicting nature of the disease at hand. Individuals with a drug addiction and coexisting mental illness are categorized as dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis rehabilitation generally requires intense therapy coupled with pharmacological treatment and continued post-rehabilitative care. When considering a treatment facility, it’s important to consider location, costs, and reputation to ensure a healthy and happy recovery.
The History Of Dual Diagnosis
“Dual diagnosis” is a term that came into popular use in 1984. This was in response to new research showing that the majority of patients diagnosed with mental illnesses were also struggling with alcohol or drug addiction.
Breaking Down Dual Diagnosis
Alternate Names – Dual Diagnosis is also referred to as “co-occurring” or “co-existing” disorder or diagnosis.
Mental Disorders – Some people develop mental disorders following a prolonged history of substance abuse. Others self-medicate existing mental disorders; resulting in addiction.
Detox – Treatment for dual diagnosis begins with detoxification. This process serves to eliminate toxins from the body to ensure a clean slate moving into mental illness treatment.
Common Illnesses – Common mental illnesses seen in dual diagnosis include, but are not limited to personality disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Family – Family involvement is crucial to the recovery process. In addition to family counseling, loved ones must cater to the special needs of patients following discharge.
Theories Of The Causes Of Dual Diagnosis
Many specialists have suggested nerve deficiencies to be indicative of an existing dual disorder. Dual diagnosis has also been linked to patients with a history of inner city living, self-medication, physical or sexual abuse, parental neglect, and poverty.
Treatment For Dual Diagnosis
Treatment through a provider like Touchstone Ranch Recovery Center, who specializes in personalized therapy for both alcohol and drug dependency and mental illness, is the most effective means of achieving health and recovery.
If you or your loved one is struggling with dual diagnosis, Touchstone Ranch Recovery Center is the place to turn. Pick up the phone today and call 888-988-5402, and let our team of specialists guide you in the freedom of recovery!