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What Is the Definition of Dual Diagnosis?

Two people trying to understand the dual diagnosis definition

For many, they may not even realize that they are dealing with a co-occurring mental health disorder alongside a substance user disorder. This is the definition of dual diagnosis and is actually quite common. Dealing with addiction on its own can be overwhelming, and layering in a mental health disorder can make it even more challenging to manage on your own. Seeking professional help through an accredited treatment facility that specializes in substance use and mental health disorders can give you a greater chance at a successful recovery.

To help determine if dual diagnosis treatment in Georgetown is the right path, contact the professionals at The Arbor. Our dedicated treatment team can guide you through treatment options for both addiction and mental health disorders.

Dual Diagnosis Definition

A dual diagnosis is defined as having both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder at the same time. The best course of action for co-occurring disorders is to treat them at the same time to achieve the most successful recovery. In many cases, an addiction to drugs or alcohol will lead to a strain on mental health. In other cases, an existing mental health disorder can cause someone to turn to drugs and alcohol to try and numb the negative or frustrating feelings they are having.

At an accredited addiction treatment facility, the team will share what treatment and recovery look like as part of a dual diagnosis program. Each stage of the process is personalized as part of a custom plan for each individual.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

The definition of addiction is when you know your drug use is dangerous, but you do it anyway. This lack of self-control is typical in addiction as well as co-occurring mental health disorders. These faults are human, and at The Arbor, we treat each person as a human being that is struggling. The treatment team is in place to help. Respect and compassion are an integral part of The Arbor’s therapeutic approach, alongside results-driven experiential and clinical-based therapies. Dual diagnosis care options at The Arbor include:

  • Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
  • Long-term care via sober living
  • Residential addiction treatment

With dual diagnoses, substance use and mental health disorders are usually diagnosed separately but should be treated together. So, even though someone could be diagnosed with a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder that are completely unrelated, they can absolutely affect each other, and that is why they are treated concurrently.

The Benefits of a Dual Diagnosis Program

Dual diagnosis programs offer highly experienced therapists and medical professionals to guide clients through a treatment program in a safe, comfortable, and inviting environment in which to heal. Benefits of a dual diagnosis program include:

  • The ability to treat the entire person and not just the disorders on their own
  • A well-managed better state of mental health
  • Instilling the importance of therapy for the long-term
  • Less risk of a relapse and a greater chance of lifelong sobriety

The Arbor Offers Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Texas

A dual diagnosis is nothing to be ashamed of. Likewise, recognizing that a problem exists and seeking the help needed should be applauded. There are still stigmas in our society around addiction and mental health. However, awareness, understanding, and education continue to increase. While disorders may vary, there are some mental health disorders that are more common with addiction.

At The Arbor, we treat a variety of mental health disorders alongside addiction, including:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

Do you want to learn more about what a dual diagnosis means and how to get treatment in Georgetown, Texas? If so, call The Arbor today at 844.413.2690. We can help you reach recovery.