Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Wichita Falls, TX
A dual diagnosis is a condition that occurs when a person experiences both a mental illness and a substance abuse disorder. Another name for a dual diagnosis is a co-occurring disorder. The existence of a dual diagnosis is common. According to Dartmouth University, an estimated 50 percent of those with a serious mental illness also have a substance abuse problem. While having both conditions is common, in the past, alcohol and drug rehab centers have not offered treatments for both conditions. However, dual diagnosis treatment in Wichita Falls is available that can help a person stop abusing drugs and alcohol while also receiving treatment for their mental illness.
According to Dartmouth University, the most common substance of abuse in a person with a dual diagnosis is alcohol. This is followed by marijuana and cocaine. Whatever the substance of abuse, having a dual diagnosis can complicate treatment for drug addiction. A person may have more difficulty stopping using drugs, and struggle more with sobriety due to the daily effects of their mental illness.
However, just because dual diagnosis may be more difficult to treat, this doesn't mean that it is impossible to overcome. With the right dual diagnosis treatment in Wichita Falls, a person can get sober and receive the best treatment programs in Wichita Falls for their mental illness, which doesn't include drugs and alcohol.
Types of Mental Health Disorders
Mental health disorders for those with a dual diagnosis can vary. A common misconception about dual diagnosis in general is that a person can simply "snap out of" whatever mental illness they are experiencing. This is far from the truth. Just as substance abuse addiction is a chronic and relapsing condition, so is a mental illness. A person needs support from mental health professionals to experience the best results.
- Bipolar disorder: This condition causes a person to experience episodes of depression and mania that can be long-lasting. In bipolar disorder, one type of illness is usually more dominant. For example, a person will either experience depression most of the time or have manic episodes most of the time.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): This condition causes a person to experience recurring thoughts or enact behaviors to relieve anxiety. Sometimes, the persistent thoughts can be unpleasant and traumatic to the person with the condition.
- Panic disorder: Panic disorder causes a person to experience the extremes of anxiety, such that they may have panic attacks. These attacks can make a person feel as if they are dying.
- Schizophrenia: This condition is a severe mental illness that causes a person to lose touch with reality. They will experience hallucinations and delusions, which can cause them to harm themselves and/or others.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): This condition occurs after a person has experienced a traumatic event, such as a military battle or abusive relationship.
Through dual diagnosis treatment in Wichita Falls, a person can receive help for these and other health conditions.
Why Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Necessary? What Are the Benefits?
According to Dartmouth University, when a mental health disorder and substance abuse problem are treating simultaneously, a person has a reduced incidence of psychotic episodes and suicide attempts. Also, dual diagnosis may make different recommendations as to relapse prevention in Wichita Falls. For example, research has shown those with a dual diagnosis do not respond as favorably to participation in 12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. However, a person is more likely to benefit through having a positive social support network. This could be accomplished by participating in family counseling or staying at a sober living home.
Those who suffer from dual diagnosis often abuse drugs and/or alcohol as a means to escape their condition. However, these substances will only worsen a condition instead of making it better. As a result, a person is not treating their underlying condition and is engaging in substance abuse that can take years off their life. Through dual diagnosis rehab, a person can understand more about why they feel the way they do. They can get treatments that will actually help their underlying illness instead of causing greater harm.
They can reduce the risks for experiencing trouble with the legal system and going to jail due to their substance abuse. Both conditions are highly treatable, and dual diagnosis treatment programs can help. As a result, a person can receive the support they need to build new social skills and restore relationships with friends and family. Ideally, they can live a fuller life without the hazards of substance abuse and addiction. Call us now for help (877) 804-1531.