There are an estimated 8 million Americans who suffer with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, also sometimes referred to as a dual diagnosis. People who do 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 be challenging to evaluate and treat, and if either are left untreated both can become more detrimental for the person, leaving them vulnerable to mental, physical and social consequences. Consequences in these special cases can be very serious, at times leading to homelessness, suicide, legal consequences and premature death. With the correct diagnosis and specific treatment methods to address the co-occurring disorders simultaneously, this can be avoided and individuals in Cambridge with co-occurring disorders can be productive and live happily.
With increased understanding on the subject, research and innovation in the field of co-occurring disorders has come a more broad range of treatment services for these individuals. Early intervention can be key in these situations, and many people with co-occurring disorders may seek primary care services first before looking for behavioral health services. This offers PCP's an unique opportunity to diagnose people 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 extensive array of services than the non dual-diagnosis client, services that are usually provided in inpatient and residential rehab programs which can provide services for the initial detoxification process and off of any medications and drugs they need to stop using immediately. Clinicians and treatment specialists work with patients in these settings to address both disorders simultaneously with counseling, behavioral therapy, and mental health services, and before discharge come up with a robust aftercare plan to ensure these clients don't immediately relapse because of either disorder being triggered.
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