Dual Diagnosis Center in Wisconsin

Individuals suffering from depression may use substances to self-medicate and temporarily alleviate their symptoms, but substance use can often worsen depressive symptoms over time.

This includes generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and others. Like depression, people with these conditions may use substances to try to reduce their anxiety, but this can lead to a cycle of dependency and worsening symptoms.

Substance use can be a way for individuals with bipolar disorder to cope with their symptoms, including both manic and depressive episodes. However, substance use can also trigger mood episodes and make the overall course of the disorder more severe.

Individuals with PTSD may turn to substances as a way to numb their feelings or to try to forget traumatic memories, but substance use can interfere with the processing of trauma and exacerbate PTSD symptoms.

People with ADHD may be more likely to develop substance use disorders, in part due to the impulsivity and difficulty with self-regulation that are common with this condition.

The relationship between schizophrenia and substance use is complex. Some people with schizophrenia may use substances to cope with their symptoms or the side effects of their medication, while in other cases, substance use may contribute to the development or worsening of psychotic symptoms.

People with BPD may use substances to cope with intense emotions, to manage feelings of emptiness, or to deal with episodes of dissociation. Substance use can increase the risk of self-harm and suicidal behavior among individuals with this disorder.

Some people with OCD may use substances in an attempt to reduce their obsessions or compulsions, but substance use can often make OCD symptoms worse.

Dual diagnosis treatment takes into account the complexity of each individual’s condition, providing a more holistic care.

By treating both conditions together, healthcare providers can better understand how these disorders interact and impact each other.

Addressing both issues at once often leads to better overall outcomes as it prevents untreated symptoms of one disorder from hindering the treatment of the other.

Dual diagnosis treatment can decrease the risk of relapse because it aims to equip individuals with the skills they need to manage both their substance use and mental health symptoms.

Each person’s combination of mental health disorder and addiction is unique, so dual diagnosis programs are designed to meet these individual needs.

Many dual diagnosis programs also provide life skills training, helping individuals to function better in their daily lives.

Dual diagnosis treatment programs often offer group therapy or support groups, giving individuals the opportunity to connect with others who are facing similar struggles.

Treating only one condition can lead to a cycle where each untreated illness triggers symptoms in the other. Dual diagnosis treatment breaks this cycle by treating both conditions simultaneously.

Overcoming addiction and managing mental health can greatly improve an individual’s quality of life, including relationships, work, and overall health.

The first step in dual diagnosis treatment is a thorough assessment to determine the nature and severity of both your mental health and substance use disorders. This will involve interviews, questionnaires, and medical tests.

If necessary, you’ll undergo a medically supervised detoxification process to safely remove substances from your body. This process is monitored by medical professionals to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Based on your assessment, a personalized treatment plan will be developed to address both your mental health and substance use issues. This plan will likely involve a combination of therapies, medications, and supportive services.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used in dual diagnosis treatment. CBT helps you understand and change thought patterns that lead to harmful behaviors. Other therapeutic approaches may also be used, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and group therapy.

Depending on your specific conditions, medication may be used to manage symptoms of your mental health disorder, reduce cravings for substances, or both.

Dual diagnosis treatment often involves support services to help you manage other areas of your life that may be affected by your conditions. This could include vocational training, housing assistance, and help with legal issues.

Towards the end of your treatment program, an aftercare plan will be created to help you maintain your recovery. This might involve ongoing therapy, support group meetings, and strategies to handle potential relapses.