Living with drug and alcohol addiction can be challenging in many ways. People with a substance use disorder may face severe consequences in their mental, physical, financial, and social health and can often face barriers when seeking treatment.

People with co-occurring mental health conditions often face more challenges. Coping with mental health conditions and addiction at the same time can make daily life difficult and can lead to long-term harm.

When someone has a substance use disorder and a mental illness, it is known as having a dual diagnosis. A medical or mental health practitioner must determine someone has a dual diagnosis by completing a mental health assessment and a substance abuse evaluation. Receiving a dual diagnosis is the first step in getting treatment for these conditions.

People with mental health challenges and a substance use disorder require comprehensive, specialized treatment for both conditions. If you or someone you love lives with a dual diagnosis, you are not alone. Reach out to the caring team at Arise Treatment Center now to learn about our dual-diagnosis treatment programs near San Diego or to schedule an intake assessment.

Do I Need Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

People with a dual diagnosis meet the criteria for a mental illness and a substance use disorder. A doctor or mental health professional can determine someone has a dual diagnosis by completing an evaluation that includes:

• Questions about your substance use
• Mental health history
• Information about your family history of mental illness and addiction
• Physical examination
• Lab testing

Before receiving a formal dual diagnosis, it’s possible to recognize the signs of mental illness and addiction. These include:

• Being diagnosed with a mental illness
• Using drugs or alcohol to cope with stress or trauma
• A history of depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or another mental health condition
• Significant changes in your appetite, mood, or sleep
• Increased isolation
• Interpersonal difficulty or relationship strain
• Spending a lot of time and energy to get, use, and recover from using drugs or alcohol
• Substance abuse worsens the symptoms of an existing mental health condition

If you or a loved one exhibits symptoms of a mental illness and substance abuse, seek out an evaluation from a medical professional or addiction specialist. Understanding your dual diagnosis can help you find the treatment you need to manage your symptoms and improve your functioning.

What Happens in a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center Near San Diego?

The San Diego area is home to a thriving recovery community with many opportunities for high-quality, effective treatment and support. Understanding what to expect from a dual diagnosis treatment center near San Diego can help you feel more confident during treatment and remain committed to recovery–even when it feels challenging.

Dual diagnosis treatment occurs in progressive stages. Here is a general idea of what to expect during dual-diagnosis treatment.

Assessment

Before your treatment starts, a doctor or addiction specialist will assess your needs and determine which level of care and type of treatment you need to be successful in recovery. The information gathered in this evaluation will shape your course of treatment and ensure you get the high-quality, effective treatment you need.

Medically-supported detoxification

Many people experience withdrawal symptoms after they stop using drugs or alcohol. These withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable–and sometimes dangerous.

During a medically-supported detox program, people receive the supervision and treatment they need to have a safe, complete detox. Treatment typically includes:

• Medications
• Emotional support, including individual therapy when appropriate
• Round-the-clock supervision
• Holistic treatments to support comfort

The length of detox programs varies depending on each person’s needs but typically lasts between 3 and 7 days.

Dual diagnosis treatment

After completing detox, people must participate in a comprehensive treatment program that allows them to address the complex underlying physical, behavioral, and emotional aspects of their mental illness and substance abuse.

Treatment plans are tailored to meet each person’s needs but generally include:

• Medications
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Group and family therapy
• Mental health treatment
• Aftercare planning
• Holistic therapies like yoga, nutrition support, and mindfulness

This combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies allows people to manage the symptoms of their mental illness and learn how to avoid a substance use relapse for the rest of their lives.

Aftercare

Mental illnesses and substance abuse are often lifelong conditions that can’t be cured. People must learn how to manage their symptoms and develop healthy routines that support sobriety.

Managing a dual diagnosis requires commitment and ongoing support. People must develop an aftercare plan that includes regular mental health care and recovery-related activities, such as 12-step meetings, sober living, and regular therapy appointments.

Find a Dual-Diagnosis Treatment Center Near San Diego

Mental health and addiction are closely connected. Comprehensive dual-diagnosis treatment can help you recover from addiction and manage the symptoms of your mental illness so you can live a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Don’t wait another day for the treatment and support you deserve. Reach out to the team at Arise Treatment Center to explore our high-quality dual diagnosis treatment near San Diego or to find support during any stage of your recovery journey.