There are approximately 8 million Americans who struggle with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, also sometimes referred to as a dual diagnosis. People who suffer with a mental health disorder, whether properly diagnosed or not, are more likely than those who don't to have some type of drug or alcohol addiction issues. This can sometimes be challenging to identify and treat, and if either one of them are left untreated both might become more harmful for the person, leaving them open to physical, mental and social consequences. Consequences in these unique cases can be severe, sometimes leading to suicide, homelessness, legal consequences, and premature death. With proper diagnosis and specific treatment methods to work on the co-occurring disorders at the same time, this can be prevented and individuals in Buffalo with co-occurring disorders can be productive and live happily.
With increased awareness, research and innovation in the field of co-occurring disorders has come a more wide range of treatment services for these clients. Early diagnosis can be key in these circumstances, and many people with co-occurring disorders may look for primary care services first before seeking behavioral health services. This offers PCP's a special opportunity to identify individuals with co-occurring disorders through screening and then referral to the correct treatment services.
Individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders need a more extensive array of services than the non dual-diagnosis client, services that are usually offered in inpatient and residential programs which can assist with the initial stabilization process to get them detoxed and off of any medications and drugs they need to quit taking immediately. Doctors and therapists work with patients in these settings to treat both issues simultaneously with counseling, behavioral therapy, and mental health services, and before discharge come up with a sturdy relapse prevention and aftercare plan to ensure these clients don't immediately relapse because of either disorder being triggered.
For All Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Facilities In Buffalo, Click Here.