There are an estimated 8 million Americans who struggle with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, also known as a dual diagnosis. People who do have a mental health disorder, regardless of whether it has been properly diagnosed or not, are more likely than those who don't to have some type of drug or alcohol addiction issues. This can be hard to diagnose and treat, but if either are left untreated both can be very harmful for the person, leaving them vulnerable to physical, mental and social consequences. Consequences in these special instances can be severe, at times leading to homelessness, suicide, legal consequences and premature death. With proper diagnosis and specialized treatment to work on the co-occurring disorders at the same time, this can be prevented and people in Scotland with co-occurring disorders can lead perfectly happy and productive lives.
With increased understanding on the subject, research and innovation in the field of co-occurring disorders has come a more wide spectrum of treatment services for these individuals. Early diagnosis can be vital in these situations, and many individuals with co-occurring disorders may look for primary care services first before seeking behavioral health services. This offers primary care physicians a special opportunity to diagnose people with co-occurring disorders through screening and then referral to the correct treatment services.
People with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders require a more extensive array of services than the typical treatment client, services that are usually offered in inpatient and residential programs which can provide services for the initial detoxification process and off of any drugs and medications they need to quit taking immediately. Doctors and therapists work with clients in these settings to treat both issues simultaneously with behavioral therapy, counseling, and mental health services, and before discharge devise a sturdy relapse prevention and aftercare plan to ensure these clients don't quickly relapse due to either disorder being activated.
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