Dual Diagnosis in Madison (877) 804-1531
Sometimes those struggling with addiction not only have a substance abuse problem, they also suffer from a mental illness. When these two disorders co-occur, the condition is known as a dual diagnosis in Madison.
A dual diagnosis is a common condition that can make treatment difficult. When a person seeks treatment at a drug rehabilitation center, it is important that he or she does so at a center that specializes in dual diagnosis. Alcohol Treatment Centers Wisconsin helps you find a recovery center that meets all of your needs, dial (877) 804-1531 today.
The Mental Health Disorders and Addiction Connection
Addiction and mental illness are more common than most people think. While it can be difficult to diagnose which condition came first, it is imperative that patients receive treatment and skills for managing them both. Sometimes a person experiences a substance abuse problem first and then develops emotional and mental conditions associated with the abuse.
In others, a mental health disorder occurs first. The person may use drugs or alcohol as a means to temporarily feel better.
Mental Health Disorders Commonly Associated With Addiction
According to the National Institutes of Health, alcohol and drug abuse conditions commonly occur with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and personality disorders.
An estimated 50 percent of people with an eating disorder, such as bulimia or anorexia, have a substance abuse problem, according to the National Eating Disorders Association.
Both drugs and alcohol are known to cause panic attacks and contribute to panic disorders. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, alcohol abuse and panic disorders often begin simultaneously.
Those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more likely to take alcohol or drugs as a means of self-medication. While not every person who suffers from PTSD will have a substance abuse problem, there is an increased risk.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is another common condition associated with dual diagnosis. A person may use drugs or alcohol as a means to escape obsessive thoughts.
How Prevalent Is Dual Diagnosis?
An estimated one-third of those with mental illness also deal with substance abuse, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Half of the people with a severe mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder also experience a substance abuse problem.
What Treatments Are Available?
Drug Rehab Centers in Madison offers a multi-faceted treatment approach to help those with a dual diagnosis overcome their substance abuse disorder.
Psychopharmacology: Psychopharmacology is the practice of prescribing medications that can help a person reduce his or her incidence of depression, anxiety or panic. People who experience hallucinations or voices related to their mental illness can also take medicines to help reduce this incidence.
Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy is the practice of working with a therapist on a one-on-one basis to share thoughts, emotions and struggles related to substance abuse and a mental health disorder.
Behavioral Management: Behavioral management is a strategy to help a person develop positive coping behaviors instead of negative ones, such as using illegal substances.
Continued Treatments for Dual Diagnosis in Madison
Treatment for a drug and substance abuse disorder requires continuous monitoring and medication management to ensure a person can live a life free from substance abuse. This process involves engaging in aftercare services, such as the 12-step programs of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
Individualized counseling and treatments are also available. Drug rehab centers provide these aftercare services or can connect a person with services that can help him or her maintain sobriety.
For more information on treatment centers, please call Alcohol Treatment Centers Wisconsin at (877) 804-1531.