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Understanding What a Dual Diagnosis Is

a person looks hopefully out of a window from a couch as they ponder the dual diagnosis meaning

A dual diagnosis rehab is a type of mental health treatment program that focuses on substance use disorders and the conditions that are behind the abuse. This program addresses all aspects of addiction but focuses more on the mental health condition that is fueling it. This program can be very beneficial to those who had tried quitting before and relapsed because the program did not treat the underlying issue behind their abuse. But what is the dual diagnosis meaning? Understanding the challenges you face can be an important first step in making a recovery.

7 Summit Pathways is a fully accredited addiction treatment center that supports men and women who are struggling with an addiction fueled by PTSD, major depressive disorder, or other mental health conditions. Our therapists take the time to build trust and open communication with each patient to develop an effective program that works on the physical and mental symptoms of their addiction. To speak with us about enrolling in our program for dual diagnosis in Tampa, FL, call 813.212.7149 today to schedule a tour and meet our dedicated team.

Understanding the Dual Diagnosis Meaning

What is a dual diagnosis? A dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder program is a type of mental health treatment program for people whose addiction is caused by other psychological issues. When you abuse drugs or alcohol, you disrupt the delicate chemical balance within your system, which can impact the way your body operates. The longer you abuse drugs or alcohol, the more problems you will have, like slowed thinking, sexual dysfunction, and a lack of self-control.

Addiction is a tricky mental health condition to treat, especially when there are underlying mental health symptoms. Addiction is both a symptom of and a cause of several mental health conditions, such as:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Major depressive disorders
  • Generalized anxiety disorders
  • Borderline personality disorders
  • Bipolar disorders

What is a dual diagnosis, and how can it benefit your recovery? At 7 Summit Pathways, we will discuss the dual diagnosis meaning as it impacts your life and answer any questions you have about the recovery experience. We go over each stage of the recovery process with you and develop a custom treatment program that focuses on the mental health condition fueling the abuse.

The Benefits of a Dual Diagnosis Program

Enrolling in a dual diagnosis program to treat addiction is the smart choice to make when the addiction is causing disruptions at work and at home. Patients will work with experienced therapists and medical technicians in a safe environment that promotes open communication and healing. After enrolling in an addiction treatment program, here are some of the benefits that you can expect:

Improved Mental Health

Dual diagnosis does more than treat the addiction; it treats the whole person. Patients will participate in a number of behavioral and holistic therapies that address the underlying cause of the abuse and the damaging effects it has on the body and mind. Therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness meditation help patients address the reasons behind their substance abuse and find new ways to cope with symptoms and triggers.

Increased Desire to Continue Therapy

Knowing why a person abuses drugs or alcohol is the first step in a recovery program that people who choose to quit without support don’t go through. Instead, they continue to cycle through quitting and relapsing until they have little desire to try again. Dual diagnosis treatment programs guide patients through discovering the original reason behind their substance abuse and begin forming effective coping skills to stop their addictive behaviors.

Promotes Lifelong Sobriety

A dual diagnosis program can help men and women prolong their recovery efforts. They develop a better understanding of how addiction works and what personal issues trigger their cravings. They also learn other healthy life skills like self-expression, nutrition education, and other beneficial skills that promote lifelong sobriety and a healthier state of mind.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Tampa, FL at 7 Summit Pathways

At 7 Summit Pathways, our team is committed to helping people overcome their addictions and manage any mental health condition behind their substance abuse. Our treatment programs treat the physical and mental aspects of addiction while addressing the underlying mental health issue that is fueling it. Patients will work with a behavioral therapist in group and private therapy sessions for as long as necessary to reach their recovery goals.

To see if a dual diagnosis program is right for you, fill out our online form or call 813.212.7149 today to speak with one of our caring team members.