The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery® is regarded as a reputable addiction treatment center. We know that drug abuse and obsessive behaviors often go hand in hand with a wide range of mental health disorders, which can both cause and worsen a person’s drug abuse or obsessive behaviors.
Because of this, we are able to offer specialized treatment for other mental health problems when they happen at the same time as an addiction diagnosis.
These might include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar disorder
What is dual diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis is the term that is used when a person has been diagnosed with one or more mental health disorders, such as anxiety, personality disorder, or depression, in addition to a substance use disorder, such as alcoholism or opioid abuse. Some examples of mental health disorders include anxiety, personality disorder, and depression.
Comorbidity is another term that can be used to refer to a dual diagnosis. For example, a person can have a mental illness and also be addicted to sex, drugs, alcohol, or some combination of these things. In this case, the mental illness could be schizophrenia, depression, or borderline personality disorder.
When someone has a dual diagnosis, their treatment takes into account both illnesses. This makes it possible for them to get better completely and for a long time. Both psychiatric diseases and substance use disorders can range in severity. People with multiple illnesses may need therapy that is more intense and lasts longer because they face so many problems with their physical and mental health.
What can cause comorbidity in drug addiction?
Genetics
Research in the field of medicine indicates that genetics play an important part in both mental health issues and addiction. It is likely that a person who comes from a family with a history of addiction or depression will be susceptible to such difficulties; there are likely several factors and explanations at play here.
Investigations conducted in recent times by modern science into the genetics of addiction have uncovered the fact that the individual genes and gene networks of people who suffer from addiction appear to function in a different manner when compared to people who have not been subjected to drug abuse.
In addition, there is a correlation between prenatal exposure to chemicals or poisons and an increased risk of later-in-life mental health issues for the person who was exposed while they were still in the womb.
Environment
The environment is an outside influence that contributes to the development of co-occurring disorders. Children who are brought up in households where alcohol and drugs are freely consumed may end up abusing them because they believe that such behavior is appropriate.
There are a variety of environmental factors that can contribute to the development of mental illness. These factors include traumatic experiences, such as being involved in an accident or being the victim of physical or sexual abuse; stressful life events, such as getting a divorce or losing a loved one; financial strain; and exposure to certain drugs or chemicals.
Other risk factors:
- Family history of substance abuse and/or mental health issues
- Prenatal exposure
- Gender – men are more likely to need dual diagnosis treatment
- Poor self-image and self-esteem
Dual diagnosis and treatment at The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery
Our mental health and addictions treatment program gives patients the full and all-encompassing care they need to rebuild their lives. It also gives them the chance to leave their struggles with addiction and mental health in the past. Long-term sobriety is most likely to last when untreated mental health symptoms do not put it at risk. That is why we help every person who comes to us develop healthy coping mechanisms. These skills allow them to face emotional challenges without turning to alcohol or narcotics. We offer evidence-based, individualized and supportive treatment to every client who walks through our doors. We know that no single treatment works for everyone with an addiction disorder, so our focus stays on the individual. To support each client’s long-term success in recovery from substance misuse, we create individualized treatment plans built around their needs.
Key takeaways
Lasting recovery depends on treating the whole person. When addiction and mental health conditions are addressed together, clients are better prepared to manage stress, emotions and triggers without relapsing. Care that is grounded in evidence, tailored to the individual and continued after discharge gives people the strongest foundation for a self-sustaining recovery.
Why choose The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery
Dual diagnosis care is at the heart of what we do. Our team treats addiction and mental health together instead of separately, so no part of your struggle goes unaddressed. Every treatment plan is built for you, and our support does not end at discharge. We stay with you from your first call through intake and well beyond your last day of treatment. Located in Kentucky, we treat you and your loved ones as part of our community.
Take the next step toward recovery
You do not have to face addiction or mental health challenges alone. Call The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery today to speak with our admissions team and learn how our mental health and addictions treatment program can help. We will answer your questions, walk you through the intake process and help you find the level of care that fits your life, whether that is intensive outpatient or outpatient treatment. Your recovery can start with one call.