Dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorder, refers to an individual suffering from a substance use disorder and mental health disorder simultaneously, a pervasive situation. People struggling with mental illness often turn to drugs or alcohol, seeking relief from their symptoms, leading to substance abuse or addiction. Alternatively, individuals with substance abuse or addiction can develop mental health disorders. Whichever the case, the chances for a successful recovery from either requires care from a dual diagnosis treatment center.
The team of professionals at Westwind Recovery® understands the importance of dual diagnosis treatment. We provide comprehensive treatment for a variety of substance abuse and mental health disorders. To learn more about effective dual diagnosis treatment, contact us at 855.340.8832.
Why Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Important?
On their own, substance use disorders and mental health disorders destroy people’s lives and present treatment challenges. Combined, they become even more complicated. Until recently, it was commonly believed that they needed to be treated separately. It is now understood the connection between addiction and co-occurring disorders makes it necessary to treat them simultaneously for recovery from either to be successful and lasting.
Part of what makes dual diagnosis treatment, so complex is that the symptoms of each disorder are so similar and overlapping. The relationship between substance use disorders and mental health disorders is an intricate combination of biological, genetic, and environmental factors unique to each individual. Some of the most common dual diagnoses are substance use disorders and:
- Depression disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Personality disorders
Many who suffer from dual diagnoses do so in isolation because they think they are alone in their struggle. However, research indicates that nearly eight million Americans suffer from co-occurring disorders. Using drugs or drinking alcohol is a common way to self-medicate in order to alleviate the symptoms of mental health disorders. While substance use may provide temporary relief, it only serves to worsen symptoms in the long run. At Westwind Recovery®’s® dual diagnosis treatment center, we believe that successful treatment focuses on you as a person, not just your diagnosis.
What Are the Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
Dual diagnosis treatment begins with an in-depth assessment to ensure that our treatment team has a clear picture of your substance use, mental health, and medical history so they can understand your treatment goals.
Our integrated approach to dual diagnosis treatment will streamline your recovery and provide insight into how your co-occurring disorders impact each other and your ability to function. You will learn coping and life skills that you can carry with you beyond treatment, providing you with the power to handle triggers that previously provoked symptoms. Dual diagnosis treatment also provides:
- Holistic care for the body, mind, and spirit
- Individual and group therapy
- Evidence-based therapies
- Trauma therapy
- Community and peer support
- Family therapy
- Relapse prevention planning
If you struggle with addiction and mental health issues, you are not alone, and help is available. Through the dual diagnosis treatment program at Westwind Recovery®, you can grow in ways you didn’t know you were capable of and have hope for a healthy, fulfilling future.
Find Substance Abuse Treatment at Westwind Recovery®
Co-occurring disorders can have devastating impacts on individuals and their families when left untreated. Addiction and mental health issues play off one another to create a vicious cycle that leaves many feeling helplessly trapped. When individuals get sober without treating their underlying mental illness, or vice versa, it frequently results in relapse. Successful recovery can only happen when both conditions are treated concurrently.
Co-occurring disorders are common, but they do not have to control your life. The dual diagnosis treatment program at Westwind Recovery® provides integrated treatment designed to stabilize mental health symptoms while providing the foundation for recovery from addiction. To learn more about dual diagnosis treatment and our many levels of care, reach out using our online form or call 855.340.8832 today. Recovery awaits.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
