There are approximately 8 million people in the United States who struggle with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders, also known as a dual diagnosis. People who suffer with a mental health disorder, whether properly diagnosed or not, are more likely to have some type of substance abuse disorder. This can sometimes be challenging to evaluate and treat, but if either one of them are left untreated both can become more harmful for the person, leaving them exposed to physical, mental and social consequences. Consequences in these unique cases can be very serious, sometimes leading to suicide, homelessness, legal consequences, and premature death. With the correct diagnosis and specialized treatment to handle the co-occurring disorders at the same time, this can be avoided and individuals in Princeton with co-occurring disorders can lead perfectly happy and productive lives.
With increased awareness, study and innovation in the field of treatment for co-occurring substance abuse disorders has come a more broad range of treatment services for these individuals. Early diagnosis can be vital in these circumstances, and many people with co-occurring disorders may seek primary care services first before seeking behavioral health services. This offers PCP's a special opportunity to diagnose individuals with co-occurring disorders through screening and then referral to the appropriate treatment resources.
Individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders require a more extensive array of services than the non dual-diagnosis client, services that are commonly offered in hospital and residential rehab programs which can help with the initial detoxification process and off of any medications and drugs they need to quit using immediately. Clinicians and treatment specialists work with patients in these settings to treat both issues concurrently with behavioral therapy, counseling, and mental health services, and before discharge develop a strong relapse prevention and aftercare plan to ensure these clients don't quickly relapse because of either disorder being triggered.
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