Questions And Answers About Dual Diagnosis Treatment For Chemical Dependency
If you or a loved one have developed a chemical dependency, it can be difficult to overcome the addiction without professional assistance. Since there are multiple factors that contribute to the development of a dependency on drugs or alcohol, willpower alone is not enough.
Many people who suffer from a chemical dependency are co-morbid, which means that they suffer from multiple medical conditions at the same time. Often, for a chemically dependent person, the addiction is paired with some form of mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or clinical depression.
Nevertheless, there are ways to successfully treat a chemical addiction. One promising approach is dual diagnosis treatment. This form of treatment targets the addiction and the mental health concerns simultaneously. Thus, the patient is less likely to revert back to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate a mental disorder. Here are a few questions and answers about dual diagnosis treatment:
Is dual diagnosis treatment performed in an outpatient setting?
Dual diagnosis treatment is usually conducted in an inpatient facility. Thus, the patient is surrounded by a positive, professional support system around the clock.
How long does dual diagnosis treatment usually last?
Although there are 30-day, 90-day and 12-month programs, the length of the treatment varies based on the needs of the patient. However, if your stay at a dual diagnosis treatment center has been ordered by a court, you will be required to stay in treatment long enough to satisfy your legal requirement.
Is detoxification included in the program?
Patients who undergo dual diagnosis treatment may go through a period of detoxification to allow the drugs or alcohol to leave their system. However, non-addictive medications may be offered to ease uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
In addition, exercise and healthy eating habits are encouraged during treatment to help the patient's body heal effectively. This holistic approach also helps the patient form healthy habits that can be continued after the patient completes treatment.
Why is counseling included in dual diagnosis treatment?
Chemical dependency and mental problems both have physical indications. However, there are also psychological factors that need to be addressed. Often, mental disorders and addiction are influenced by emotional triggers that are rooted in past experiences. Counseling can help uncover these triggers and teach the patient positive coping mechanisms.
If you are suffering from a chemical dependency, contact a dual diagnosis treatment center to learn more ways that this form of treatment can benefit you.
For more information about drug addiction treatment, go to this web-site or do an online search.
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