Dual Diagnosis Treatment

What is dual diagnosis, and how is it identified?

Dual diagnosis treatment programs are a comprehensive approach to addiction and mental health recovery that accounts for co-occurring disorders. Having multiple disorders at once produces unique challenges and, therefore, requires case-by-case treatment plans that are individualized and take into account all relevant factors that exacerbate symptoms.

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What types of mental health disorders are commonly treated in dual diagnosis programs?

The most common mental health disorders that are treated in dual diagnosis programs include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder
• Obessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Bipolar Disorder
• Cyclothymic Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)
• ADHD

How does dual diagnosis treatment differ from standard addiction treatment?

Dual diagnosis treatment plans differ from standard recovery plans as they address both substance use disorders (SUDs) and co-occurring mental health disorders at the same time.

What are the most effective therapies for dual diagnosis treatment?

The most effective therapies include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Holistic Therapies
• Group Therapy
• Peer Support

Are medications used in dual diagnosis treatment?

Yes, depending on the patient’s particular case, Medication-Assisted Treatment may be implemented alongside non-medication treatments.

How long does dual diagnosis treatment typically last?

Typically, 6–12 months for outpatient or intensive outpatient programs, with residential programs lasting 1–3 months, followed by ongoing support to prevent relapse.

How can family members support someone in dual diagnosis treatment?

There are many ways to support your loved one going through dual-diagnosis treatment. Here are some of the ways you can be supportive:

• Educate yourself about addiction and mental health disorders
• Encourage and support your loved one’s treatment
• Avoid enabling by participating in or accommodating addiction or unhealthy behaviors stemming from a mental health disorder
• Be patient and practice empathy
• Foster a supportive environment by reducing stressors and practicing open communication
• Don’t take their symptoms personally
• Support relapse prevention tactics
• Take care of yourself and maintain your own well-being

What are the risks of not treating both disorders in a dual diagnosis?

Not treating underlying or co-occurring mental health disorders while recovering from addiction can have significant negative consequences, including:

• Worsening symptoms of both disorders
• Increased risk of relapse
• Compounding mental health issues
• Physical health problems or complications
• Impaired daily life
• Increased treatment difficulty
• Social and financial problems
• Overdose and self-harm risks

Are there holistic or alternative therapies for dual diagnosis treatment?

Popular holistic and alternative therapies for dual diagnosis treatments include:

• Mindfulness Therapies
• Yoga and Movement Therapies
• Meditation
• Acupuncture
• Nutritional Therapy
• Art and Music Therapy
• Equine-Assisted Therapy
• Biofeedback/Neurofeedback

Does insurance cover dual diagnosis treatment?

Yes, dual diagnosis treatment, which addresses both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a co-occurring mental health disorder like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), is typically covered by insurance to varying extents, as it is recognized as an essential mental health and addiction service. 

Coverage depends on the insurance plan, provider network, treatment type, and regional regulations.