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Do I Need Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Substance use disorder is an extremely complex medical condition. While many people see just the physical evidence of alcohol and drug use and abuse, there are many other components that are involved. One of these components is a mental illness, which might lead you to ask: do I need dual diagnosis treatment? At Promises Behavioral Health, we can give you the answers.

What Is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis is a term that refers to someone who is struggling with both a substance use disorder and a mental illness at the same time. In some people, a mental disorder was already present that prompted them to turn to drugs and/or alcohol. Other people develop a mental illness as a result of their drug or alcohol addiction.

Because an individual who has a dual diagnosis has two distinct illnesses, then each one must have its own plan of treatment. If you are wondering do I need dual diagnosis treatment, then it’s important to remember that you are not alone. In fact, in 2018, there were more than nine million adults in the United States who were experiencing both a substance use disorder and mental illness. Moreover, with the current COVID-19 crisis, this number is growing.

Dual Diagnosis Symptoms

If you’re curious about answering the question: do I need dual diagnosis treatment, then you might also wonder if there are any symptoms that you need to be aware of. There are numerous dual diagnosis combinations, so the symptoms can vary greatly.

However, if you notice any of the following dual diagnosis symptoms in yourself or a loved one, the issue needs to be explored further. Keep the following symptoms in mind:

Unable to control substance use

Many people who have a substance use disorder are not able to control the number of addictive substances you use could be experiencing addiction. In most cases, even negative consequences, such as the loss of your family or job, won’t make it easier for you to control your substance use.

Unexpected behavioral changes

If you are concerned about a friend or family member who might have a dual diagnosis, look for changes in their behavior. Someone who is suddenly secretive when they’ve previously been open, for example, could indicate that they are abusing drugs or alcohol. Increased irritability, impatience, and anger are also cause for concern.

Having withdrawal symptoms and/or a high tolerance

An individual who realizes that they need more of a substance in order to obtain the same feelings of happiness and euphoria could be developing a tolerance. A related condition is the development of withdrawal symptoms if a person attempts to stop or reduce the number of drugs they use or alcohol they drink.

The substance feels necessary

Having a reliance on alcohol or another drug in order to start your day could be a sign that you’ve developed an addiction to that substance.

Interestingly enough, some of the symptoms that could indicate that there is a mental health condition. These include mood changes, avoiding social activities, confused thinking, and issues with concentrating.

Do I Need Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Chances are that if you’re asking this question, then you already know what the answer is. If you have a dual diagnosis, an integrated approach to treatment is the best plan.

When searching for a substance use disorder treatment, make sure that the facility has the experience and staff to treat both conditions. Promises Behavioral Health provides comprehensive treatment options for dual diagnosis clients including:

By contacting Promises Behavioral Health at 844.875.5609, you’ll have the chance to talk with one of our compassionate team members who can help you recover from both your substance use and your mental health illness.

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