When someone is struggling with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder, it can feel overwhelming and difficult to manage. This combination of conditions is known as dual diagnosis, and it requires a specialized approach to care. At ALANA Recovery, our dual diagnosis treatment program provides compassionate, comprehensive support to help clients address both mental health and substance use issues at the same time. It’s very important to understand dual diagnosis treatment better and how it works because it can greatly impact the success of recovery.
What Causes Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis can develop for many reasons, often due to the complex relationship between mental health and substance use. Some common causes include:
Self-Medication
Many individuals turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their mental health symptoms. This can provide temporary relief, but it often leads to the development of a substance use disorder.
Many people use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health conditions.
Genetics
A family history of mental illness or substance use disorder can increase the likelihood of developing a dual diagnosis.
Environmental Triggers
Stress, trauma, and early exposure to substance use are significant factors that can lead to both mental health and addiction disorders.
Brain Chemistry
Imbalances in neurotransmitters can make people ore susceptible to addiction and mental health challenges.
Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis
Identifying the symptoms of dual diagnosis can be difficult, as substance use often hides or exacerbates underlying mental health issues. Common indicators that someone may be facing a dual diagnosis include:
- Frequent mood swings or extreme emotional highs and lows
- Using drugs or alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, or sadness
- Struggling to maintain relationships, work, or daily responsibilities
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms that trigger worsening mental health symptoms
- Feeling hopeless, isolated, or unable to control substance use
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to explore how to diagnose dual diagnosis and seek professional help.
How to Diagnose Dual Diagnosis
A proper diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation by medical and mental health professionals. Because the symptoms of mental illness and substance use disorder often overlap, it’s essential to work with a provider who understands both conditions.
- Comprehensive assessments – A full evaluation of mental health history, substance use patterns, and current symptoms
- Medical and psychiatric evaluations – Screening for co-occurring disorders and determining how substance use is impacting mental health
- Personalized treatment plans – Developing an individualized plan that addresses both addiction and mental health concerns simultaneously
ALANA Recovery takes a holistic approach to assessment and treatment to provide each client with the care they need.
What Is the Best Treatment for Dual Diagnosis?
Effective dual diagnosis treatment involves integrated care that addresses both mental health and substance use disorders. The best treatment approach combines evidence-based therapies with personalized support.
Key components of dual diagnosis treatment:
- Medical detox and stabilization – Managing withdrawal symptoms safely while providing mental health support.
- Therapeutic interventions – Including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – When appropriate, medications can help manage withdrawal symptoms and mental health conditions.
- Holistic therapies – Mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and nutritional support to improve overall well-being.
- Relapse prevention planning – Equipping people with coping strategies and aftercare planning for long-term recovery.
Our team at ALANA Recovery collaborates with our clients so that they can receive the individualized care they need to heal and manage both mental health and substance use disorders. Dual diagnosis treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and our program is designed to address each client’s unique needs.
Call ALANA Recovery Today and Find Dual Diagnosis Support
If you or someone you care about is facing challenges with both mental health and substance use, you’re not alone—and help is here. At ALANA Recovery, we understand how challenging this journey can be, which is why our dual diagnosis treatment program is designed with compassion and care to guide you toward lasting recovery. Our team can help you find balance, stability, and long-term well-being. Contact us online or call 770.759.7474 today to explore our treatment options.