If you struggle with addiction, you know that substance abuse and other mental health issues can sometimes go hand-in-hand. People with a substance use disorder (SUD) may have other mental health disorders, and people with mental health disorders may also struggle with substance use. When mental health and addiction are addressed together, this is considered co-occurring, or dual diagnosis.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a substance abuse disorder as well as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or another mental health issue, it’s important to find a treatment that addresses both conditions simultaneously so you can better understand how they affect each other. A dual diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but managing both your mental health and addiction is possible with the right treatment.
Managing Mental Health and Addiction Together
Understanding how your mental health and addiction affect each other can feel difficult. Oftentimes, many causes and symptoms between the two are the same, and can even exacerbate the other. However, when you work with your mental healthcare provider, managing your dual diagnosis is possible with some of the following treatment plans:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of talk-therapy that’s proven effective for managing addiction and a variety of mental health disorders. A Cognitive Behavioral Therapist can help you better understand the issues you’re facing, offer a new perspective, and provide you with the tools needed to change harmful behavioral and thought patterns.
- Support groups: Support groups are an effective aspect of recovery, especially in regards to substance abuse. Strong support groups provide you with peers who have shared experiences and are able to offer support, advice, and tools for maintaining sobriety.
- Medication: Work with your healthcare provider to determine if medication can help with one or more of your conditions. Many medications are effective in minimizing overlapping symptoms for a dual diagnosis.
- In-patient care: If you’re struggling to maintain sobriety, in-patient care is an option to consider. Discuss in-patient options with your healthcare provider to determine if in-patient care is a viable option for you.
Treating Dual Diagnosis is Possible – Call PFLC Today
Managing your mental health and addiction together can feel overwhelming, but treatment is possible. At Philly Family Life Counseling, LLC, Dr. Devers and Associates are qualified to treat dual diagnosis. PFLC offers a variety of mental health counseling services, as well as addiction counseling, support groups, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
For more information on treating a dual diagnosis or to schedule an appointment, call our office at (215) 677-3810 or fill out our online form. If you’re struggling to manage your mental health and addiction, you don’t have to work through it alone; call us today to start your journey toward recovery and a happier, healthier life.
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