Dual Diagnosis: What it is & How to Get Treatment

Co-occurring disorders can make treatment more challenging, but addressing both concerns simultaneously provides the best chance at lasting recovery. Addiction and mental health interact in complex ways and no two dual diagnoses are the same, so it’s important to treat an individual’s mental, emotional and physical needs with comprehensive and holistic care.

At Pathfinders Recovery Center, comprehensive mental health screening is an important part of our intake process, allowing us to accurately identify each individual’s needs. This helps us gain a more thorough understanding of their challenges and aids in the development of a personalized treatment plan that effectively addresses their specific concerns.

That’s why integrated dual diagnosis treatment is key to a successful recovery. It provides each client with the comprehensive care they need to address the interconnected web of their mental, emotional and behavioral concerns. Dual diagnosis care enables individuals to not only manage their co-occurring disorders but to thrive and lead fulfilling lives beyond them.

DUAL DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT DIVIDES AND CONQUERS

Dual diagnosis care provides an integrated approach to treatment that acts as a powerful lens for perceiving the reality of co-occurring disorders for what they are: two distinct problems entwined together. At Pathfinders, addressing both disorders concurrently also offers invaluable insights that help us see how each condition manifests, allowing us to better monitor an individual’s recovery process and tailor interventions accordingly.

The patient’s perspective also shifts positively in response to integrated treatment. Instead of grappling with a confusing mix of issues that seems impossible to conquer, the distinction between the two disorders becomes more evident. This brings clarity and hope to the recovery journey, replacing vague and intimidating uncertainties with a sense of direction.

DUAL DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT STOPS THE FEEDBACK LOOP

An integrated approach to treatment disrupts the symbiotic relationship that exists between substance use and mental health disorders. Each condition sustains the other, so when only one is treated, the other is free to cause havoc and hinders effective treatment.

By embracing dual diagnosis treatment, our therapists and addiction professionals are able to stop substance use and mental health disorders from feeding off each other, stopping the feedback loop. Developing an awareness of co-occurring disorders as two separate conditions also allows for targeted yet complementary interventions and helps patients develop new coping skills and strategies for managing their symptoms.

Dual diagnosis treatment is as varied as the combination of co-occurring disorders themselves. At Pathfinders Recovery Center, our high-quality and integrated solutions may include the following care methods, depending on each person’s unique needs.

DETOX

For many people, detox is the first step in their recovery journey. This involves safely eliminating harmful substances from the body and often occurs in a medical setting, where professionals are available to monitor withdrawal symptoms in a controlled environment to ensure the comfort and safety of each client. Once detox is complete, patients are able to start addressing their mental health and substance use concerns with clarity and focus.

RESIDENTIAL & OUTPATIENT TREATMENT

After detox is complete, patients will begin their treatment. Those with less severe mental health and addiction issues may be deemed safe to return home, where they’ll continue their therapeutic journey in an outpatient program while maintaining their daily routines.

Individuals with more severe substance use or mental health concerns that pose a risk to themselves or others, or with a history of relapse, will be enrolled in residential care. This provides a more intensive and immersive approach to recovery with round-the-clock care. As patients make progress, they may transition into a more flexible level of care.

The choice between residential or outpatient treatment is based on an individual’s needs and circumstances. Some people benefit from the added support and supervision provided in a residential setting, while others may thrive with the flexibility and autonomy of an outpatient program. No matter which level of care is selected, our team is dedicated to providing a personalized and holistic experience. Each patient’s progress is closely monitored, and treatment plans are adjusted accordingly to address their evolving needs.

PSYCHOTHERAPY & OTHER PROVEN TREATMENTS

Therapy plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals with the coping skills and strategies they need to navigate their co-occurring disorders and manage their symptoms more effectively. We utilize a variety of holistic and evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, group therapy, life skills development and more to empower our patients to make positive changes that support a healthier, sober lifestyle.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups provide patients with a welcoming, encouraging environment where they can connect with others who can relate to the challenges they face. Within this empathetic setting, individuals can freely express all facets of their recovery journey, finding solace and strength through shared experiences. For many people, approaching difficult issues in a group empowers them with the collective resilience and support they need to heal.

MEDICATION

When appropriate, patients may receive medication to address their mental health condition. Our team also provides medication management for an individual’s existing treatment. Additionally, medication may be used in detox to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and as part of the treatment process to reduce cravings, depending on the severity of the addiction.