It is not uncommon for a patient to suffer from both mental health disorders and addiction issues simultaneously. According to recent studies, substance abuse has been a problem at some point in the past for 64% of patients currently undergoing psychiatric treatment, and as many as 90% of those suffering from schizophrenia. The structured living environment at Affinity provides an effective and welcoming place for treating individuals who suffer from both addiction issues and thought or mood disorders.
Understanding Dual Diagnosis
When mental disorders and substance abuse occur simultaneously it is called a dual diagnosis. The effects can be especially disheartening and obstruct the patient’s progress, even when under the care of a physician. The most common symptoms include:
- Alienation from family and friends
- Lack of cooperation with doctors and nurses
- Frequent and excessive outbursts of emotion
For friends and loved ones, as well as for the affected individual, this often leads to confusion. Is the substance abuse causing the symptoms of mental illness? Is a known history of mental disorder manifesting as uncontrolled additions?
When a patient suffers from both mental illness and substance abuse, we can never turn a blind eye to one issue while attempting to treat the other.
Getting Help for Dual Diagnosis Patients
While it is not always possible to determine whether mental illness or substance abuse is having a greater impact on the patient, it is beneficial to focus primarily on the thought or mood disorder involved—at least initially. There are several reasons for this. First, only after the patient has stabilized on the proper medication and dosage does he or she have the presence of mind necessary to confront the substance abuse problem effectively. Once the patient better understands his or her role in stopping the cycle, progress tends to come faster and the patient is less prone to relapse. This is not to say that substance abuse is any less important than mental illness, but rather that we see the best overall results when confronting the two issues in this sequence.
Affinity specializes in the treatment and care of dual diagnosis patients. Our comprehensive management environment focuses on stabilizing the mental disorder so that a patient can approach the substance abuse issue with a clear mind.
If you think you know someone who is exhibiting symptoms of dual diagnosis, get them the help they need. We work individually with each patient to create a personalized experience that leads to an exceptionally high rate of success.
Contact us immediately if you would like to speak to someone about the dual diagnosis program services offered at Affinity. We will be happy to assist you make an informed choice for the benefit of your loved one.
