Many people who are struggling with drug and alcohol abuse also are battling mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. You may use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate a mental health condition believing that using these substances can relieve the discomfort and stress these conditions cause. Unfortunately, while using these substances can appear to cover these conditions, it only masks the symptoms. Referred to as “co-occurring disorders” or “dual diagnosis,” the most effective treatment programs address both concerns simultaneously. In some cases, it can worsen the mental health issues at the heart of the addiction. Our dual diagnosis therapy program allows you to heal from both your addiction and your mental health problems. For information about how our treatment programs can support your recovery, reach out to Bonfire Behavioral Health today at 603.617.4815.
Co-Occurring Disorders and Dual Diagnosis Treatment
In many treatment programs, co-occurring disorders and dual diagnosis are used interchangeably. Co-occurring disorders transpire when two illnesses occur concurrently. In a co-occurring disorders treatment program, this involves an addiction occurring at the same time as a mental health condition. In many cases, people struggling with drug or alcohol use tend to be more likely to develop mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Conversely, you may have turned to drugs or alcohol because you’re trying to cope with the symptoms of mental health conditions. These conditions can drive you to abuse substances in order to function normally.
It really doesn’t matter which condition caused the other or came first. Instead, it is critical to recognize that you’re battling two conditions simultaneously, so you need to address them concurrently. Experts say that about half of those who are struggling with mental health issues will experience addiction as well.
Why Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment Necessary?
It is challenging to determine the cause in many cases. However, it is critical to seek treatment for both conditions. If you only seek treatment for your mental health condition, you will continue to use drugs or alcohol, which can intensify or cause other mental health conditions. Conversely, if you only get treatment for your addiction through addiction treatment programs, you won’t have the tools to manage your mental health conditions. As a result, you may find yourself returning to drug or alcohol abuse. Only when you get treatment for both conditions can you find the support and tools that you need to fully recover.
At Bonfire Behavioral Health, we offer individualized treatment programs tailored to each of our clients. We offer a range of therapeutic options to provide you with the care you need. For instance, our treatment options include:
- Trauma therapy: If your mental health condition is rooted in some form of trauma, getting to the cause of that trauma is essential. With the help of our trauma therapy program, we can help you understand your trauma and build the tools you need to cope with it.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy allows you to identify adverse behaviors in your life and replace them with healthier patterns.
- Dialectical behavior therapy: Dialectical behavior therapy gives you the skills you need to cope with stressful situations and allows you to manage that stress in a healthy way.
- Relapse prevention therapy: Addiction and mental health conditions are both chronic diseases. If you are want to stay sober and mentally healthy, it’s critical to develop relapse prevention strategies.
With the help of co-occurring disorders therapy and a range of other therapies, you can move into a healthier and brighter future.
Contact Bonfire Behavioral Health Today
At Bonfire Behavioral Health, we are prepared to help those struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Don’t let your co-occurring disorders hold you back from a healthier future. Contact Bonfire Behavioral Health today at 603.617.4815 to learn about your treatment options.