Addiction and mental illness are common issues in the United States. Both require treatment and supportive care so that people can live healthy, productive lives. People living with a dual diagnosis of mental illness and addiction are especially high-risk and have a higher rate of violence and suicide. It can be hard to determine if someone qualifies for a dual diagnosis.
Sometimes, the symptoms of mental illness can be similar to the effects of substance abuse. Addiction can make it hard for people to participate in treatment for mental illness or stick to an ongoing treatment plan. Many people use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate, which masks their mental health symptoms and makes it appear they are struggling only with addiction. Once diagnosed, finding a treatment facility that effectively treats both issues is difficult. The facility staff must offer knowledgeable care for both issues and the chance for people to move through rehab at their own pace.
If you or someone you love have a dual diagnosis or think you may have one, help is available. You do not have to struggle alone. The experienced staff of the Atlanta Mental Health Center is ready to support you in your journey to recovery. Call us at 833.625.0458 or fill out an online intake form today.
What Are Signs of Dual a Diagnosis?
It can be difficult to determine if someone has a dual diagnosis. Without delving in deeply, people have trouble figuring out which symptoms result from a mental health condition and which come from their substance use or addiction. Some signs of a dual diagnosis are:
- Not enjoying life without using alcohol or drugs
- Starting to use substances to cope with stress or anxiety
- Starting to use substances after a traumatic event
- Having a family history of mental illness
- Withdrawing from everyday life
- Being secretive about substance use
- Using more drugs or alcohol to get the same mood-altering effect
Many people who abuse drugs or alcohol have an underlying mental health condition. About half of the people diagnosed with addiction also struggle with common mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Getting help for a dual diagnosis is crucial to recovering from addiction and treating mental illness. The sooner you start treatment, the better the chances of recovery.
Do I Need Mental Health Treatment or Addiction Treatment?
Many people wait for years before seeking help for addiction or mental illness. On average, people delay treatment for 11 years. Struggling with a dual diagnosis for any amount of time can be exhausting and discouraging. People often suffer severe harm to their physical and mental health, education or work, and relationships while managing their symptoms alone. It can be hard to know if someone requires mental health treatment or addiction treatment.
If someone with a dual diagnosis receives focused treatment only for their addiction, they may relapse later because of their untreated mental health symptoms. Similarly, if someone with a dual diagnosis receives care only for their mental health, their addiction may derail any progress they make. Because dual diagnosis can be very complex, it is important to work with professionals who understand how to treat both issues.
Learn More About Dual Diagnosis Care at Atlanta Center for Mental Health
If you or a loved one have a dual diagnosis and need supportive care and treatment, contact the staff at the Atlanta Center for Mental Health. Our programs include:
- A residential mental health center
- A dual diagnosis treatment program
- Anxiety treatment program
- Bipolar treatment program
- Depression treatment program
- PTSD treatment program
With the right support, you can recover from addiction and treat your mental health issues. A healthy, full life is possible. The experienced staff at the Atlanta Center for Mental Health are ready to join you on your journey. Contact 833.625.0458 or fill out an online intake form today.
