Substance Abuse and Mental Health: Dual Diagnosis
Many individuals suffering from
substance abuse problems may experience a mental health issue such as anxiety,
depression, or bipolar disorder at the same time – this is called dual
diagnosis or co-occurring disorders. Coping with a dual diagnosis can be
extremely difficult as the individual is attempting to overcome two monsters
that feed off of each other. Substance abuse and mental health disorders are
closely linked. When drug or alcohol abuse increases, the mental health problem
often worsens. As well as when the mental health problem goes untreated, the
substance abuse will worsen. Luckily for you, Capitol Care is here to help.
With the proper treatment, self-help strategies, and support, you can recover
from a dual diagnosis and living a happy, fulfilling life.
Treatment for Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Problems
•
Have Hope - Recovering from dual
diagnosis disorders takes time, courage, and discipline. Therefore, the first
rule on the road to recovery is to have hope and believe in your ability to be
strong and fight this.
•
Combined Treatment Programs are a
Must - The best treatment for co-occurring disorders is through an integrated
treatment approach. Recovery depends on treating both the mental health problem
and the addiction.
•
Don’t Get Discouraged if You
Relapse - Relapses are apart of the recovery process. The road to success may
not be perfectly straight however, with hard work and persistence, most
individuals can recoup from their relapses and continue with their recovery
program.
•
You May Find Great Comfort in a
Peer Support Group – Joining a self-help support group such as, Narcotics
Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous may benefit your recovery. Peer support
groups are a safe place where you can learn, discuss challenges, and receive
support from others who know exactly what you are going through.
Your doctor or treatment provider
may be able to refer you to an accredited support group for co-occurring
disorders as well. Be sure to choose a support group where you feel safe.
Treatment Programs for Veterans
with Dual Diagnosis
Veterans deal with additional
challenges in regards to dual diagnosis disorders. The pressures of deployment
or war may trigger underlying mental disorders, and substance abuse is often
used to cope with troublesome memories or feelings Individuals should be aware
that these symptoms might take some time to appear after a veteran returns
home. Veterans frequently benefit from treatment as well as support from
specialized programs that focus on the unique stresses veterans undergo.
Self-Help for Substance Abuse and Dual Diagnosis
Disorders
Getting sober is only half the
battle. Your full recovery depends on continuing mental health treatment,
discovering healthier coping strategies, and making good decisions every day.
• Recovery tip 1: Recognize and manage overwhelming stress and
emotions.
Stress is a part of life’s
challenges; therefore it is essential to create health coping skills so you can
manage stress without turning to alcohol or drugs. If you’re coping with a
mental disorder as well, it is crucial to know what triggers your illness to
flare up. During these times, having a plan in place will help in preventing
drug relapse.
• Recovery tip 2: Stay connected
Seek professional treatment or stay
involved in a support group. Your chances of staying sober will improve if you
are participating in a peer support group or if you are receiving therapy.
Furthermore, it is crucial to speak
with your doctor before stopping any treatment or medication. Once you are
sober and you feel better, you may think you no longer need medication or
treatment. However, stopping medication or treatment is a common reason for
relapse in people with co-occurring disorders.
• Recovery tip 3: Make healthy lifestyle changes
Practice relaxation techniques such
as deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation to
reduce symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety.
Maintain healthy eating habits and
exercise regularly.
Get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep
every night. Lack of sleep can trigger anxiety, stress, and depression.
To learn more about dual diagnosis
disorders or if you believe you may be suffering from substance abuse and/or a
mental health disorder, contact Capitol Care at (205) 956 – 2000 for a
confidential discussion. Do not suffer with this difficult problem alone.
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