In many instances, those suffering from an untreated mental disorder (such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder) will turn to drugs and alcohol as a means of self-medication. While the concerned individual may feel temporary relief from his or her symptoms, substance abuse will exacerbate and worsen symptoms in the long run. On the other hand, excessive drug and alcohol use may result in mental health issues – issues that will continue to worsen as substance abuse persists. Regardless of which disorder preceded the other, both must be treated concurrently in order for long-term sobriety to be achieved.
As is the case with all substance abuse treatment, medical detoxification is a crucial first step. Once an individual has undergone medical detox, he or she will be immediately transferred to an inpatient rehab facility. These inpatient facilities will differ based on individual needs – many are gender-exclusive, some are designed for individuals suffering from substance abuse and eating disorders, and some are designed for the treatment of dual diagnosis disorders.
More About Dual Diagnosis Treatment
A study conducted by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health in 2018 found that nearly 9.2 million American adults struggle with dual diagnosis disorders. Because dual diagnosis disorders are so common, many treatment centers offer programs designed specifically for those struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. We at Garden State Treatment Center have carefully designed a rehabilitation program geared towards those who need professional help in both areas. Unfortunately, those that do not get help for their mental illness and addiction disorders will often relapse.
Because of this, it is absolutely crucial that the treatment provider understands the ways in which one disorder affects the other. For example, if an individual with depression has been self-medicating with alcohol, the symptoms of depression may have worsened with continued alcohol use (seeing as alcohol is a depressant). If this is the case, the underlying depression and alcoholism will need to be treated individually (while simultaneously). If both disorders are not treated, worsening symptoms of depression will likely lead the individual back to drinking.
Garden State Treatment Center – What Sets Us Apart
Our team of addiction specialists and mental health professionals will re-evaluate each individual client over the course of their stay, making any changes to the treatment plan that are deemed necessary. What sets our treatment program apart from the rest is our highly individualized and integrated approach – we spend as much time as necessary coming up with a personalized plan, and work with each of our patients every step of the way.
