Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Comprehensive Care for Co-Occurring Disorders

Addiction is already a complex and challenging condition, but when combined with a co-occurring mental health disorder, the path to recovery becomes even more intricate. Without a customized dual diagnosis treatment program, achieving long-term recovery is unlikely.

The highest quality California dual diagnosis treatment is available at Design for Change Recovery in Lancaster, CA. We provide evidence-based, full-continuum programs tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Our mission is to help clients heal the physiological, psychological, and emotional factors contributing to their substance use. This holistic approach allows individuals not only to overcome physical dependence on drugs or alcohol but also to develop effective strategies for managing negative thoughts and behaviors, reducing the risk of relapse.

What Is Dual Diagnosis and Why Does It Matter?

Defining Dual Diagnosis

According to MedlinePlus.gov:

“A person with dual diagnosis has both a mental disorder and an alcohol or drug problem. These conditions occur together frequently. About half of the people who have a mental disorder will also have a substance use disorder at some point in their lives and vice versa.”

Often, these co-occurring disorders exacerbate each other. Unfortunately, many people with dual diagnosis do not receive the specialized treatment they need due to misdiagnosis. Symptoms of mental disorders are sometimes mistaken as side effects of substance use, leading to addiction treatment that only addresses physical dependence. Without proper mental health support, relapse is likely.

Why Do Psychological and Substance Use Disorders Co-Occur?

Understanding the connection between mental health and substance use disorders can be complex. Research suggests three primary contributing factors:

1. Common Risk Factors – Stress, trauma, and genetic predisposition can contribute to both mental health disorders and substance use disorders.
2. Mental Disorders Leading to Substance Use – Individuals with mental health disorders often use substances to self-medicate, which can lead to addiction.
3. Substance Use Leading to Mental Disorders – Substance misuse alters brain chemistry, increasing the risk of developing mental health conditions.

According to SAMHSA, approximately 9.2 million people in the U.S. had co-occurring disorders in 2021.

Common Types of Dual Diagnosis

Many individuals struggling with substance use disorder also face one or more mental health conditions. The relationship between these disorders creates a vicious cycle that requires integrated treatment. Some common dual diagnosis conditions include:

Depression and Addiction

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, causes prolonged sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. To cope, many individuals turn to drugs or alcohol.

Symptoms of Depression:

• Loss of interest in activities or responsibilities
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleep)
• Changes in appetite and low energy levels
• Anxiety and restlessness
• Persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness
• Suicidal thoughts

Trauma and Addiction

Trauma, including PTSD, significantly increases the risk of addiction. Individuals who experience trauma may turn to substances as a coping mechanism.

Symptoms of PTSD:

• Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
• Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response
• Frequent nightmares or flashbacks
• Emotional numbness or detachment
• Risky or self-destructive behaviors

Bipolar Disorder and Addiction

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. Many individuals with this disorder self-medicate with substances to manage their symptoms.

Symptoms of Mania:

• Racing thoughts and excessive talking
• Decreased need for sleep
• Impulsive or reckless behavior
• Inflated self-esteem

Narcissism and Addiction

Individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) often display an exaggerated self-image, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Many turn to substances as a way to cope with underlying emotional struggles.

Symptoms of Narcissism:

• Sense of self-importance and superiority
• Craving for admiration and attention
• Feelings of entitlement
• Lack of empathy for others

About 40% of people with NPD develop a substance use disorder due to their unrealistic expectations and unpredictable behaviors.

How Is Dual Diagnosis Treated?

In the past, mental health and addiction were treated separately, often leading to relapse. Today, integrated treatment programs focus on addressing both conditions simultaneously for the best possible outcomes.

California Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Design for Change Recovery

At Design for Change Recovery, we provide client-focused, solution-oriented therapy that targets the root causes of addiction. Our programs offer a variety of treatment modalities, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Holistic Wellness Approaches
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
• Biosound Therapy
• Psychodrama Therapy
• Meditation and Yoga
• 12-Step Programs
• Family Therapy
• Aftercare Services

Our goal is to equip clients with the skills, confidence, and motivation to maintain long-term recovery.

Get Help Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and a co-occurring mental health disorder, help is available. Design for Change Recovery in Lancaster, CA, offers confidential assessments and customized treatment plans to meet your unique needs.

Sources:

• medlineplus.gov/ – dual-diagnosis
• samhsa.gov/ –  Co-Occurring Disorders and Other Health Conditions
• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ – The Prevalence and Significance of Substance Use Disorders in Bipolar Type I and II Disorder
• psychologytoday.com/ – Is He or She an Addict First? Or a Narcissist First?
• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ – Mood Disorders and Substance Use Disorder: A Complex Comorbidity
• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ – Psychosocial Interventions in Patients with dual-diagnosis
• adaa.org/ – Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)