If you or a loved one is struggling with both mental health challenges and substance use, you may need dual diagnosis treatment. Mental health disorders and addiction often go hand in hand, and treating only one without addressing the other can lead to relapse. At Archangel Centers, we provide comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for co-occurring disorders. If you’re unsure whether dual diagnosis care is right for you, here are key signs to watch for.
What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
Dual diagnosis treatment is a specialized approach that treats both substance use disorders and mental health conditions at the same time. Many individuals turn to substances to self-medicate mental health symptoms, but this only worsens both conditions over time. An integrated treatment plan addresses the root causes of addiction and mental health struggles, improving long-term recovery outcomes.
Addictions Treated at Archangel Centers:
✔ Alcohol Addiction
✔ Opioid Addiction
✔ Benzodiazepine Dependence
✔ Cocaine & Stimulant Addiction
✔ Prescription Drug Addiction
✔ Polysubstance Abuse
✔ Trauma-Related Substance Use
✔ Detox & Withdrawal Management
Mental Health Conditions Treated in Dual Diagnosis Programs:
✔ Depression & Major Depressive Disorder
✔ Generalized Anxiety Disorder & Panic Disorders
✔ Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
✔ Bipolar Disorder & Mood Disorders
✔ Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
✔ Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
✔ Schizoaffective Disorder & Psychotic Disorders
✔ Trauma-Related Mental Health Issues
Signs You Might Need Dual Diagnosis Treatment
1. You Use Substances to Manage Mental Health Symptoms
If you rely on drugs or alcohol to ease anxiety, depression, PTSD, or mood swings, it may be a sign of an underlying mental health condition that requires professional care.
2. Substance Use Makes Your Mental Health Worse
Rather than providing relief, alcohol and drugs often increase anxiety, depression, or even suicidal thoughts. If your substance use exacerbates emotional distress, dual diagnosis treatment can help stabilize both conditions.
3. You’ve Been Through Rehab Before but Keep Relapsing
If past addiction treatments haven’t worked, an undiagnosed mental health disorder could be fueling your cycle of relapse. A dual diagnosis program treats both issues together for better long-term success.
4. You Experience Extreme Mood Swings and Unstable Emotions
Mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, PTSD, or borderline personality disorder are often linked to addiction. A dual diagnosis program can help regulate emotions and prevent self-destructive behaviors.
5. Daily Life Feels Unmanageable
If you struggle with maintaining relationships, holding a job, or managing responsibilities, a dual diagnosis program can help rebuild stability and coping skills.
6. Withdrawal Symptoms Include Psychological Distress
Experiencing paranoia, hallucinations, panic attacks, or severe depression during withdrawal suggests a deeper issue that requires medical and psychological treatment.
Levels of Care for Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Everyone’s recovery journey is unique, and treatment plans should be tailored based on individual needs.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) vs. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- PHP: A structured, full-day program offering intensive therapy and medical support, while allowing individuals to return home at night.
- IOP: A more flexible program with therapy sessions several times per week, suited for those transitioning from PHP or needing continued care.
Therapies Used in Dual Diagnosis Treatment:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps change negative thought patterns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Teaches emotion regulation and distress tolerance.
- Motivational Interviewing: Encourages individuals to stay engaged in their recovery process.
Supporting a Loved One in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
If you suspect a loved one is struggling with co-occurring disorders, here’s how to help:
✔ Encourage Professional Treatment – Help them explore their options for care.
✔ Set Boundaries – Avoid enabling their substance use or covering up negative consequences.
✔ Provide Emotional Support – Let them know you care, but don’t try to fix everything for them.
✔ Educate Yourself – Learn about dual diagnosis to better understand their struggles.
✔ Take Care of Yourself – Consider support groups like Al-Anon or Nar-Anon to maintain your own well-being.
Why Choose Archangel Centers for Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
At Archangel Centers, we offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach to dual diagnosis care. Our programs include:
✔ Medical Detox & Supervised Withdrawal
✔ Individualized Therapy & Mental Health Support
✔ Holistic & Trauma-Informed Treatment Options
✔ Relapse Prevention & Life Skills Coaching
✔ Sober Living & Aftercare Planning
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and mental health challenges, help is available. Call Archangel Centers at (888) 464-2144 or visit Archangel Centers to learn more about our specialized dual diagnosis treatment programs.
