Los Angeles Dual Diagnosis Treatment

What Is a Dual Diagnosis Assessment?

Addiction is a disease that impacts the user mentally and physically. As the addiction takes hold, the person becomes physically addicted to the substance, which causes mental changes in the brain, exacerbating the problem. When determining how to treat the addiction properly in a professional setting, a dual diagnosis assessment is conducted by mental health professionals to determine if the person struggling with substance abuse also has an underlying mental health disorder like depression and addiction. Attending a dual diagnosis treatment center Los Angeles residents can access will look at the patient’s drug history, symptoms, and behaviors to identify the presence of co-occurring mental health conditions. The assessment can help determine if the mental health issues are driving the substance abuse or if the substance abuse is exacerbating the mental health problems. This information is critical for developing an effective addiction treatment plan that addresses the addiction and any co-occurring mental health disorders.

What Are Some of the Benefits of the Dual Diagnosis Treatment Model?

For people struggling with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, dual-diagnosis treatment in rehab addresses both conditions simultaneously, which has proven to produce better long-term outcomes compared to treating them separately. This process is beneficial since it helps improve how to treat the symptoms of both conditions. When mental health issues and addiction are treated at the same time, the therapies and medications used can lessen the symptoms of both disorders. The treatment approach helps the patient develop healthier coping mechanisms and gain better control over their mental health and substance use.

By treating both conditions, patients are more likely to engage in and complete their treatment plan when their addiction treatment needs are met. Patients who are more actively involved in their treatment have been shown to produce more positive results as they develop the skills and strategies necessary for lasting recovery. The dual diagnosis model reduces the risk of relapse since it helps patients develop the skills to manage their addiction and any underlying mental health conditions that may have contributed to their substance abuse. 

What Are the Barriers to Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

While dual-diagnosis treatment has been proven to be an effective program for overcoming addiction, until recently, mental health and addiction were looked at as two separate conditions. This type of thinking made it more difficult to find treatment centers offering dual diagnosis programs. While awareness of co-occurring disorders has increased, there are still limited options for mental health and addiction professionals who have the expertise to properly assess, diagnose, and treat these conditions. This specialized treatment is critical as dual-diagnosis patients require nuanced clinical medical skills and an understanding of the relationship between substance abuse and mental health. Without enough qualified providers, many patients struggle to find professional dual-diagnosis treatment centers to help recover from addiction.

What Is the Best Way to Treat Dual Diagnosis?

Treating dual diagnosis requires a comprehensive and integrated approach. The best way to treat dual diagnosis is through a combination of evidence-based treatments that address the addiction and the mental health issue simultaneously. An effective way to treat dual diagnosis starts with assessing and diagnosing both conditions. The treatment team can then develop a tailored plan that addresses the patient’s unique needs. This typically features a combination of medication management, therapy, and supportive services like aftercare support. Medications can manage symptoms of the mental health condition and help reduce cravings and withdrawal. Therapy programs like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help patients develop coping strategies and address the underlying issues that contribute to addiction and mental health conditions. Supportive services can help patients access housing, employment, and other sober living resources that are crucial for long-term recovery.

Find a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center Los Angeles Residents Can Access

Muse Treatment Center understands the importance of treating substance abuse and mental health conditions together. That’s why we make it easy to find our dual diagnosis treatment center Los Angeles residents can access. Our dual diagnosis program is designed to help patients manage every aspect of their addiction. We recognize that patients suffering from co-occurring disorders need professional treatment help, and we’re here to provide the ideal care to tackle these conditions. A key aspect in treating patients with substance abuse issues and co-occurring disorders is establishing a strong and transparent relationship between the patient and the medical team. We make a significant effort to pair each patient with a therapist catering to their needs to produce a treatment program that promotes addiction recovery. Please contact Muse Treatment Center at 800-428-1818 today to discuss how our mental health rehab center can help patients overcome the mental and physical challenges of addiction in a professional environment.