Addiction is both a symptom and cause of dual diagnosis conditions where one disorder fuels the other. Dual diagnosis examples include a number of difficult situations to treat and are often caused by unresolved traumatic experiences in early childhood or in combat situations. PTSD and alcohol addiction are prime examples of a dual diagnosis condition. Treating dual diagnosis disorders will require a firm commitment to recovery and participation in a variety of therapies and medical support.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we welcome Floridians from all walks of life who are struggling with a dual diagnosis condition of addiction and anxiety or other mental health issues. When you arrive at our comfortable residence, we will run a complete physical and mental health assessment to create a tailored treatment plan that addresses all aspects of the condition. Patients will participate in group and private therapy sessions led by a certified therapist with experience treating dual diagnosis disorders. For more information about our dual diagnosis treatment in Florida, pick up the phone and call 813.212.7149 today to speak with our knowledgeable team.
What Is Dual Diagnosis?
A dual diagnosis treatment program focuses on the addiction and any underlying mental health condition that is fueling it. This is a complex situation to treat, especially if the person is unaware of the dual diagnosis, which is fairly common. Many people will start taking drugs or alcohol to feel better after a bad day. If those upsetting feelings continue to linger and they continue to use drugs and alcohol, it will create a co-occurring condition of addiction and another type of mental illness.
If you suspect a friend or loved one is struggling with a dual diagnosis condition of addiction and other mental health concerns, here are some of the signs to look for:
- They are drinking or using drugs when they feel upset, stressed, or unhappy
- They begin to withdraw from friends and family
- Whenever you see them, they are always intoxicated or planning to be
- They become angry or lash out when asked about their drinking or drug use
- They say they are “self-medicating” and only using small amounts to feel better
The best method for treating dual diagnosis disorders is through a combination of behavioral and holistic therapies with medical support to reduce withdrawals, cravings, and other psychological symptoms. Patients will begin therapy through an inpatient treatment program and graduate to outpatient treatment as their condition improves and they can better manage their symptoms and triggers.
7 Summit Pathways is a full-service addiction treatment center that offers dual diagnosis treatment for people with co-occurring conditions. We base our programs on each person’s unique symptoms and will be with them throughout their recovery journey.
3 Dual Diagnosis Examples
There are several different types of dual diagnosis examples, and each case is unique to the person and their personal experiences. These conditions generally develop over a long period of time and can be very difficult to diagnose without a full understanding of a person’s background. Here are three examples of a dual diagnosis condition:
Mood Disorders
Mood disorders are some of the largest driving forces behind dual diagnosis conditions and can lead to a severe addiction if the underlying issue is never treated. Common mood disorders that can lead to a co-occurring disorder include:
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Major depressive disorder
- Dysthymia disorder
- Medication or substance-induced depression
Anxiety Disorders
Another common disorder that can cause dual diagnosis conditions is anxiety. Anxiety disorders include post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorders.
Other Common Disorders
Other mental health issues that are commonly found to cause dual diagnosis disorders include attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia.
While dual diagnosis disorders are more complex to treat, many people with the disorder go on to lead healthy and sober lives. They have a strong commitment to staying sober and continue to work with a therapist to treat the underlying condition that started the abuse.
7 Summit Pathways: Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Florida
7 Summit Pathways is a fully accredited addiction treatment facility that offers dual diagnosis treatment for individuals with a severe substance use disorder fueled by other mental health conditions. Our therapists build a close relationship with each patient so they feel comfortable opening up about difficult experiences and sensitive subjects that led them to start drinking or using drugs.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and other mental health issues, call 813.212.7149 today or reach out online to begin your recovery journey with our dedicated team.