According to a 2021 national survey on drug use and health, over nine million people in the U.S. have a co-occurring condition of addiction and other mental health disorders. A dual diagnosis of mental health conditions includes an addiction that is either a symptom of or a cause of depression, PTSD, or other serious mental health illnesses. It requires therapists to identify the underlying condition and develop a treatment program that includes behavioral and holistic therapies and medical support.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we support Floridians from all backgrounds who are struggling with a co-occurring condition of addiction and depression, anxiety, or other types of mental health disorders. Our outpatient treatment facility provides a safe and discreet environment where patients can focus on their recovery, free from outside distractions and triggering people. Patients will work with a therapist in group and private therapy sessions using the latest treatment modalities. To see if our dual diagnosis treatment in Tampa, FL is right for you, call 813.212.7149 today to schedule a tour and meet our compassionate team.
What Is Dual Diagnosis in Mental Health?
Addiction is a complex mental health disorder to treat, especially when it is a result of another disorder. A dual diagnosis condition is when a person has a substance use disorder that is caused by or a symptom of another mental health disorder. In many cases, the person may not realize what is behind their substance abuse and experience frequent relapses until the underlying issue is addressed and resolved.
Dual diagnosis conditions are often found in men and women who struggle with:
- Anxiety and mood disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Major depressive disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Recognizing a dual diagnosis condition requires a deep understanding of the person’s personal background, family history of mental health illnesses, and peer relationships. Once the underlying issue is named, patients can begin the healing process through holistic and behavioral therapy. Treatment programs will also include medication-assisted treatments to ease withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and other disruptive symptoms so patients can fully focus on their recovery.
At 7 Summit Pathways, we have experience treating dual diagnosis mental health conditions at our outpatient treatment center in Tampa. Our therapists work closely with each patient to create an encouraging environment where they feel comfortable discussing sensitive subjects and difficult emotions.
Enrolling in a Dual Diagnosis Program for Mental Health
Enrolling in a dual diagnosis program for mental health disorders is the smart choice when the person’s symptoms become uncontrollable and cause major disruptions at home or the office. For first-time patients, here is what you can expect after enrolling in a dual diagnosis program for mental health.
Therapists will talk with each patient in private to uncover the root cause behind the substance use disorder. Once they identify the issue, they use various behavioral therapies to teach patients how to manage their symptoms and triggers. The types of therapies that are involved can include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Acceptance and commitment therapy
- Motivational interviewing
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing
During group therapy, patients will practice their coping and communication skills through group discussions, role-playing games, and other beneficial activities. Therapists will monitor interactions and make note of any behaviors that need addressing. In addition to behavioral therapy, patients will participate in a variety of holistic activities that will benefit their recovery. Some of the types of holistic therapies that promote lifelong sobriety and healthy living include:
- Meditation therapy
- Yoga
- Tai chi
- Animal-assisted therapy
- Creative writing and other forms of self-expression.
Family counseling is included with a dual diagnosis treatment program to restore trust and broken family and personal relationships. All family members and loved ones impacted by the disorder can work with a therapist to resolve any lingering issues so everyone can move forward and heal.
A dual diagnosis program for mental health can give individuals a new lease on life by treating their addiction and the underlying disorder that is fueling it. This program gives them the skills and knowledge to once and for all stop letting their symptoms and triggers control them and begin leading healthy and happy lives.
Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Tampa, FL at 7 Summit Pathways
7 Summit Pathways is an outpatient addiction treatment center that offers dual diagnosis treatment for people who are struggling with multiple mental health disorders. Our therapists have years of experience treating co-occurring disorders and understand the complexities of teaching patients to recognize and process troubling emotions or traumatic experiences that are behind their illnesses.
Contact us at 813.212.7149 today for more information about our dual diagnosis program for mental health and how it can support your or a loved one’s recovery.