There are an estimated 8 million Americans who suffer with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, also known as a dual diagnosis. People who have a mental health disorder, whether properly diagnosed or not, are more likely to have some type of drug or alcohol addiction issues. This can sometimes be hard to diagnose and treat, but if either are left untreated both might be very harmful for the individual, leaving them vulnerable to mental, physical and social consequences. Consequences in these unique instances can be severe, sometimes leading to suicide, homelessness, legal consequences, and premature death. With the correct diagnosis and specific treatment to handle the co-occurring disorders concurrently, this can be prevented and clients in Washington with co-occurring disorders can lead perfectly happy and productive lives.
With increased awareness, research and innovation in the field of treatment for co-occurring substance abuse disorders has come a more broad spectrum of services for these individuals. Early diagnosis can be key in these situations, and many individuals with co-occurring disorders may seek primary care services first before looking for behavioral health services. This offers primary care physicians an unique chance to identify individuals with co-occurring disorders through screening and then referral to the appropriate treatment services.
Individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders need a more broad spectrum of services than the typical treatment client, services that are commonly provided in hospital, inpatient, and residential rehab programs which can provide services for the initial stabilization process to get them detoxed and off of any drugs and medications they need to quit taking immediately. Clinicians and treatment specialists work with patients in these settings to treat both disorders concurrently with counseling, behavioral therapy, and mental health services, and before discharge develop a robust aftercare plan to make sure these clients don't quickly relapse due to either disorder being activated.
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