Substance use disorder and mental illness can become so entangled that it’s virtually impossible to tell which of the two came first. Did the person have a mental health issue and choose to self-medicate as a result, eventually becoming addicted? Or perhaps the substance abuse caused psychological damage. No matter what the cause, dual diagnoses, also referred to as co-occurring disorders, make treating addiction a great deal more complicated.
Common Dual Diagnoses
Addiction can go hand in hand with any number of psychological conditions. However, these are the most common pairings:
- Alcoholism with antisocial personality disorder. The lowered inhibitions that occur with drinking can make the antisocial behaviors worse
- Marijuana addiction and schizophrenia. This link is perplexing since marijuana highs and schizophrenic episodes often have similar symptoms. Yet, these two often go hand in hand.
- Cocaine addiction and anxiety disorders. Long-term cocaine use can lead to anxiety disorder symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, violence, and insomnia
- Post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid addiction. The physical or psychological pain of the traumatic event that a person witnessed may lead to long-term use of opioids to numb the pain
- Heroin addiction and depression. Long-term heroin use changes the brain chemistry, making it difficult or impossible for the person to feel pleasure or happiness
These are only a few of the co-occurring disorders that people can experience. Whatever the combination might be, these require special professional attention if someone is to make a full and lasting recovery.
When Treatment is Compromised
Drug addiction treatment involves far more than simply detoxing the body of substances. Stopping there would be no more effective than would placing a tablecloth over a deep hole. Without laying a strong foundation and building on it, a person’s recovery will simply collapse in upon itself. Similarly, mental illness cannot be treated without also deeply examining the role that a person’s chosen substance has played in its origin or in self-medication. Failing to treat all co-occurring disorders simultaneously is a recipe for disaster.
How The Dunes Can Help with Co-Occurring Disorders
If you have a substance use problem as well as a mental health challenge, healing and recovery are still possible. At The Dunes of East Hampton, we are uniquely equipped to give you the premium, effective care you’ll need to piece your life back together.
Our beautiful campus is on a secluded estate that makes recovery private, peaceful and discreet. Our staff has a strong dedication to providing you with all the amenities and evidence-based addiction treatment therapies you’ll need to address your unique set of co-occurring disorders. These are just some services you can look forward to during your stay at The Dunes:
Individual and group therapy focusing on all mental health and addiction diagnoses
- Family therapy and counseling
- Spiritual counseling
- Yoga and massage
- Meditation
- Nature walks and physical fitness
At The Dunes, our caring and knowledgeable staff will work closely with you to help you heal on all levels as a whole person. Unlike many other rehab centers, we work tirelessly to maintain an elegant setting that will maximize every step of your recovery.
Our resort atmosphere will provide everything you will need to heal in the luxury and style to which you’re accustomed. From the well-appointed bedrooms to the gourmet meals and sandy beaches, we’ll give you the top tier of luxury as you work hard to make lasting changes in your life.
If you’ve had enough of the never-ending cycle of co-occurring disorders and substance use, take refuge with us at The Dunes. Call us today at 877-818-5539 to take the first steps toward lasting recovery and healing.