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Dual Diagnosis Treatment in
San Diego, CA
What is a Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorders, refers to individuals experiencing both a mental illness and substance misuse issue simultaneously. Managing both conditions poses distinct challenges on the path to recovery. Unlike individuals solely grappling with addiction, those with dual diagnosis disorders must navigate abstaining from drug or alcohol addiction while simultaneously addressing their mental health concerns with professional assistance. At AToN we believe that oten substance misuse is a maladaptive coping mechanism for co-occuring disorders, and other stressors. While challenging, achieving sobriety, and managing mental health is feasible with proper support and treatment.
Numerous support groups and dual diagnosis treatment centers cater to individuals with dual diagnoses, offering avenues for long-term recovery when paired with appropriate treatment dual diagnosis treatment programs. If you or someone you know is confronting this challenge, rest assured that assistance is within reach and sobriety is attainable.
AToN Center, located in San Diego, stands prepared to provide comprehensive care for co-occurring disorders. Our integrated approach combines holistic healing techniques with evidence-based therapies, and daily individual therapy, ensuring that each patient embarks on their journey to healing with a solid foundation.
HOW DUAL DIAGNOSIS AFFECTS MENTAL HEALTH
Dual diagnosis, the coexistence of a mental health disorder and substance misuse issue, can significantly impact mental health in various ways. Firstly, substance misuse can exacerbate symptoms of mental illness or trigger the onset of new psychiatric symptoms. For example, individuals struggling with depression may turn to alcohol or drugs as a form of self-medication, which can worsen their depressive symptoms over time. Similarly, substance misuse can disrupt brain chemistry and neural pathways, leading to changes in mood, cognition, and behavior, which may manifest as symptoms of mental illness.
Conversely, having a mental health disorder can increase the risk of developing a substance misuse issue. Individuals with conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may turn to substances as a means of coping with distressing symptoms or alleviating emotional pain. This self-medication can provide temporary relief but ultimately exacerbate the underlying mental health condition and lead to a cycle of dependency. Additionally, the stigma and social isolation often associated with mental illness can further drive individuals towards substance use as a way to cope with feelings of shame, loneliness, or low self-esteem. Overall, the interplay between mental health disorders and substance misuse in dual diagnosis scenarios can create complex and challenging circumstances for individuals seeking to manage their well-being.
Here are some examples of mental illness:
- Nightmares (especially common from post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Withdrawal from important relationships (isolation)
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Extreme mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Insomnia
- Psychosis
SYMPTOMS OF CO-OCCURRING DISORDERS
Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis or comorbid conditions, refer to the simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder alongside a mental health issuel. This condition encompasses a wide range of combinations, including but not limited to addiction coupled with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or schizophrenia. Co-occurring disorders can manifest in various ways, with symptoms of one condition often exacerbating those of the other, leading to complex challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Effective management of co-occurring disorders requires comprehensive assessment, integrated treatment approaches, and ongoing support to address both the substance use and mental health concerns concurrently.
Substance use disorders that can co-occur alongside mental health disorders are:
- Alcohol use disorder (alcoholism)
- Opioid uses disorder (AKA opiate use disorder)
- Meth use disorder
- Stimulant use disorder
- Sedative use disorder
- And more
In order to diagnose both a mental health issue and a substance use disorder (a co-occurring disorder), at AToN Center, we assess for the following symptoms:
Symptom 1
Dependence on substances as a coping mechanism for managing a mental health disorder, or alternatively, relying on a mental health disorder to justify substance use. This behavior is commonly referred to as self-medication.
Symptom 2
The progression of either or both the substance use disorder and mental health disorder deteriorating over time.
It’s important to highlight that, on average, approximately half of individuals grappling with substance use disorder will eventually confront mental health illness. This suggests that dual diagnoses should be far more prevalent currently recognized.
CO-OCCURRING DISORDER RISKS
Individuals with co-occurring disorders face significant risks, particularly when mental health issues remain untreated. Untreated mental health conditions can exacerbate substance misuse patterns and impede recovery efforts. Without proper intervention, symptoms of depression, anxiety, or trauma can intensify, leading individuals to rely on substances as a means of self-medication. Moreover, untreated mental health issues can undermine treatment outcomes, increasing the likelihood of relapse and perpetuating the cycle of addiction. Inadequate attention to mental health concerns may also contribute to poor treatment engagement and hinder progress toward long-term recovery goals.
Furthermore, some treatment facilities solely focus on addressing the physical aspects of addiction without adequately addressing the underlying mental health root causes. This approach overlooks the interconnected nature of substance use and mental health disorders, resulting in incomplete and ineffective treatment. By neglecting to address underlying psychological factors such as trauma, unresolved emotions, or co-occurring mental health conditions, these facilities fail to provide comprehensive care. As a result, individuals with co-occurring disorders may experience limited improvement in their overall well-being and are at heightened risk of relapse following treatment. It underscores the importance of integrated treatment models that address both substance use and mental health issues simultaneously for optimal recovery outcomes.
Depression and addiction, for example, have several things in common, including:
- Loss of interest in activities
- Fatigue most of the time
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Reckless behavior
- Irritability
AToN Center recognizes the essential role of treating co-occurring disorders in achieving successful addiction recovery. Our luxury residential treatment program in San Diego is fully equipped to meet the unique needs of individuals with dual diagnoses as they journey towards wellness.
OUR SAN DIEGO OPTIONS FOR THOSE IN SEARCH OF DUAL DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT CENTERS
For many individuals grappling with addiction, distinguishing between the onset of substance misuse and mental health symptoms can pose a challenge. In certain instances, it may be a complex interplay between the two. This underscores the importance of ensuring individuals have access to dual-diagnosis treatment centers with comprehensive care, that addresses all facets of their well-being, encompassing both mental and physical health concerns.
At AToN Center, we recognize the significance of employing a holistic approach that incorporates mental health treatment as an integral component of personalized recovery plans. Our approach is centered on treating the individual as a whole, rather than solely focusing on the addiction. Through firsthand experience, we have witnessed the profound effectiveness of this approach in supporting individuals on their journey toward achieving sustained sobriety.
This holistic approach complements our clinical approach, enabling us to address both mental health disorders and substance use disorders simultaneously.
The evidenced-based treatments that we offer are:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors, providing a foundation for change.
This therapy is effective for a wide range of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, by teaching clients coping strategies that address the underlying causes of their substance use.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
DBT focuses on teaching clients skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
It is particularly beneficial for individuals with borderline personality disorder or those who experience intense emotional responses, helping them navigate the complexities of dual diagnosis.
Trauma-informed care
This approach acknowledges the widespread impact of trauma and integrates knowledge about trauma into treatment practices.
It offers a safe and supportive environment for clients to heal from trauma, which is often a root cause of substance misuse and mental health issues.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
EMDR is a psychotherapy treatment designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
Through guided eye movements, clients can process these memories and reduce their emotional impact, which is crucial for individuals with PTSD or other trauma-related disorders, or trauma.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT encourages clients to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting them, committing to positive actions that align with their values.
This approach is effective for treating a variety of mental health conditions and fostering resilience in the face of addiction.
We’ll work to pair these with holistic treatment programs:
Yoga Therapy
Yoga therapy incorporates physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve mental and physical health.
It supports recovery by reducing stress, improving emotional regulation, and enhancing overall well-being.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy offers physical relaxation and stress relief, crucial components of the healing process.
It helps alleviate the physical discomfort often associated with detoxification and withdrawal, promoting a sense of peace and relaxation.
Stress Reduction Therapy
This therapy utilizes various techniques, including mindfulness and relaxation strategies, to help clients manage stress effectively.
Stress reduction is instrumental in teaching clients how to cope with stress without turning to substances.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is used to help balance the body’s energy, reduce cravings, alleviate withdrawal symptoms, and improve mental clarity.
This traditional Chinese medicine technique supports overall health and well-being during the recovery process.
And more.
LUXURY DUAL DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT IN SAN DIEGO
Out of many dual diagnosis treatment centers in California, AToN Center stands out as the sole inpatient treatment facility in San Diego that upholds unwavering standards in the addiction recovery journey. AToN Center is the only center that offers five individual therapy session per week to address co-occurring disorders. Our dual diagnosis treatment center is dedicated to equipping individuals or their loved ones with every necessary tool to initiate the healing process effectively. Recognizing the diverse paths to recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, we offer a myriad of addiction treatment and substance misuse treatment options tailored to the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that the treatment program aligns with the individual, rather than vice versa.
Amidst the sun-kissed hills of San Diego, we extend a warm invitation to all our residents to engage in holistic healing practices, nurturing their body, mind, and spirit. Call AToN Center today to schedule a tour of our gorgeous facilities, or fill out a form and one of our specialists will contact you at your convenience.
