How to Find a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility in New Jersey

Co-occurring disorders are difficult to treat. Read on to learn how to find a dual diagnosis treatment facility in New Jersey for yourself or a loved one.

What Is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis is when an individual has both a substance use and mental health disorder. These disorders can be difficult to treat, but a dual diagnosis treatment facility provides integrated and intensive care for both treatments.

Choosing the right dual diagnosis treatment facility can make all the difference in your recovery.

How Do Co-Occurring Disorders Impact Individuals?

About 50% of people with a substance use disorder also have a mental health disorder. These mental health conditions include mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and eating disorders.¹

Co-occurring conditions usually interact in complex ways. Therefore, each condition may influence the complexity or severity of the other. This is why treatment of dual diagnosis is different than treatment of one disorder at a time.²

Importance of Dual Diagnosis Treatment

If either of the disorders remains untreated, it can make it difficult to treat the other. This also increases the risk of relapse.

A dual diagnosis treatment facility helps individuals work through their symptoms and heal the root of their disorders.

What Is a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility?

A dual diagnosis treatment facility treats substance use and mental health disorders simultaneously. They provide integrated and comprehensive treatment programs that handle both conditions.

Their structure allows them to cater to the needs of individuals with dual diagnoses.

How Is a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility Different From Other Treatment Centers?

These treatment centers differ from traditional mental health facilities in certain aspects. First, they have staff trained to treat substance use and mental health disorders. They also provide traditional resources and support with family therapy.

Individual and group therapy, meditation, and medication management are also included depending on a person’s needs. Professionals at these facilities understand the nuances of dual diagnosis treatment. A dual diagnosis treatment facility also often offers evidence-based therapy.

A dual diagnosis facility also provides individualized and integrated care that gets to the root of a person’s co-occurring disorders. This ensures that patients achieve long-lasting and healthy recovery.

What Are the Different Types of Co-Occurring Disorders?

Several mental health conditions can exist concurrently with a substance use disorder. Generally, the mental health disorder may have precipitated the substance use disorder.

For instance, a person with major depressive disorder may use stimulants like methamphetamine to help self-medicate with symptoms. It could also be the case that the mental health disorder came from the substance use disorder.

Here are some of these that a dual diagnosis treatment facility can help you or a loved one manage:

Depression

This is a mood disorder associated with persistent sadness and fatigue. It influences an individual’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

The condition is due to a combination of psychological, environmental, and genetic factors.³

Anxiety

This is a normal human emotion associated with a sense of fear about certain events. However, when it begins to affect an individual’s daily life, it becomes a disorder.

Anxiety disorders feature excessive worry, fear, and avoidance. It includes physical symptoms like sweating and trembling.

People with anxiety disorders may use substances to cope with their symptoms.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a result of exposure to a traumatic event. These events include sexual or physical assault, accidents, war, or natural disasters. Symptoms may include mood alterations and increased irritability.

Individuals with PTSD might also turn to substances to cope with their symptoms.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder features extreme changes in mood and energy levels. Manic phases feature high energy and a feeling of euphoria.

The depressive phase results in feelings of sadness and hopelessness. This condition also has implications for sleep patterns and appetite.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia affects perception, thinking, and decision-making abilities among others. It usually manifests in early adulthood or late teenage years. It relates to a range of genetic, chemical, and environmental factors. Substance use is common among people with schizophrenia.

In a dual diagnosis treatment facility, these disorders are treated with evidence-based therapies. These can include medications and other interventions. The treatment plan will meet the unique needs of each individual to help address both their substance abuse and mental health symptoms.

How Does Dual Diagnosis Treatment Differ From Other Treatment Options?

The approach at a dual diagnosis treatment facility differs from other programs in varying ways. Some examples of these differences include:

Integrated treatment: A dual diagnosis treatment facility provides integrated treatment. This addresses both substance abuse and mental health disorders. This means that treatment will meet the unique needs of each individual.
Specialized staff: Staff in a dual diagnosis treatment facility treat co-occurring disorders. This allows them to provide a more comprehensive and individualized approach to care.
Evidence-based therapies: These facilities use evidence-based therapies designed to treat co-occurring disorders. These may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and medication management.
Resources: A dual diagnosis treatment facility may offer extra resources and support. These include family therapy, holistic therapies, and aftercare planning.

Co-occurring disorders can be difficult to manage at times, as they can have varying symptoms. It is always in the best interest of the patient to opt for a dual diagnosis treatment facility.

This ensures that they get the best help to ensure their smooth and lasting recovery.

What Are Some Treatment Modalities Used In a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility?

A dual diagnosis treatment facility has the manpower, technique, and experience to help individuals with a dual diagnosis.

Here are some treatment modalities used in a dual diagnosis treatment facility:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a talk therapy. It seeks to fix negative behavioral patterns. It has shown great prowess for dual diagnosis treatment.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): DBT is another type of talk therapy. It encourages healthy behaviors and thoughts. It works well for mental health conditions and substance abuse.
Motivational interviewing (MI): MI is often used in a dual diagnosis treatment facility. It helps individuals increase their motivation to stop their substance use. This can improve their mental health outcomes.⁴
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): MAT involves the use of medications to manage substance abuse.

Importance of Personalized, Whole-Person Treatment

These therapies are effective in treating co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders. However, their effectiveness varies with the individual’s unique needs and circumstances.

This is why it’s important to create an individualized treatment plan with your doctor.

How Long Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

The treatment duration at a dual diagnosis treatment facility depends on many factors. Treatment for co-occurring disorders is generally longer than treatment for either disorder by itself.

Dual diagnosis treatment can last for a few weeks to several months or longer. They may include inpatient, outpatient, or intensive outpatient programs. The duration of treatment depends on factors such as:

Severity of symptoms: Individuals with serious symptoms need longer treatment for a full recovery.
Co-occurring conditions: Individuals with co-occurring conditions may also need longer treatment.
Support system: Individuals with a strong support system may complete treatment faster than others as well.
Treatment progress: If an individual is making progress at a faster pace, they may complete treatment faster as well.
Personal preference: Some individuals choose to extend their treatment. This further strengthens their recovery.

The treatment duration at a dual diagnosis treatment facility depends on the specific symptoms an individual has. One must work with treatment providers to determine a suitable treatment duration.

How Can Loved Ones Help During Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Loved ones play a pivotal role for individuals in a dual diagnosis treatment facility. Here are some ways that loved ones can help:

Emotional Support: Loved ones can provide emotional support to individuals in treatment. This can help individuals stay motivated and engaged in treatment.
Family Therapy Sessions: Many dual diagnosis treatment facilities offer family therapy sessions where loved ones can take part in therapy alongside the individual in treatment.
Self-education: Loved ones can learn about co-occurring disorders and the treatment process. This helps them understand what the individual is going through. They also learn how best to support overall recovery.
Aftercare Planning: Loved ones can take part in aftercare planning. This ensures that the individual has a strong support system. They also have resources in place after leaving the treatment facility.
Set Boundaries: Loved ones may need to set and enforce boundaries. These help to avoid conflict relating to the individual’s substance abuse or mental health issues. This may involve avoiding certain behaviors or situations.

A solid support system elevates one’s progress in a dual diagnosis treatment facility. Loved ones may provide a sense of purpose and meaning. This encourages one to fight for a better life.

Does Aftercare Help With Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Aftercare is often important following treatment at a dual diagnosis treatment facility. These services help individuals maintain their recovery and prevent relapse over the long term.

Some common aftercare and support services offered by a dual diagnosis treatment facility include:

Creating a plan for continuing care
Provision of support groups
Continued individual therapy
Relationship repairs through family therapy
Provision of sober living arrangement

Steps to Take to Continue Recovery After Treatment

Individuals can also take some steps to prolong their healing during the aftercare process of recovery. These may include:

Building a strong support network
Participating in ongoing treatment such as therapy and support group meetings
Practicing self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and healthy eating
Avoiding risk factors relating to their substance use or mental health symptoms
Setting and achieving goals in their recovery journey

Aftercare and support are important after treatment at a dual diagnosis treatment facility. This helps individuals to increase their chances of long-term recovery.

How to Find a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility in New Jersey?

Finding a dual diagnosis treatment facility can seem overwhelming. However, there are several ways to begin the search. Here are some steps to take when looking for a dual diagnosis treatment center:

Consult with your healthcare provider.
Research online.
Check for what services your insurance covers and at which facilities.
Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients and their families.
Ask for recommendations from support groups, therapists, or other healthcare providers.
Attend Open Houses and Tours

By taking these steps, individuals can narrow down their search. They can find a dual diagnosis treatment center that meets their needs. It’s important to research to ensure the best possible treatment experience.

What Are Some Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility in New Jersey?

Choosing a dual diagnosis treatment facility is an important decision. It can have a significant impact on an individual’s recovery journey. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a dual diagnosis treatment facility:

Accreditation and Licensing
Treatment Approach
Staff Credentials and Experience
Location and Environment
Cost and Insurance
Reviews and Reputation

By considering these factors, individuals can make an informed decision in their recovery process.

People should select a dual diagnosis treatment facility that aligns with their needs and can best treat their symptoms or disorders.

Partner With a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility at True Life Care Mental Health

At True Life Care Mental Health, we understand the challenges faced by individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders. That’s why we offer dual diagnosis treatment in a serene and welcoming environment.

Here, our clients receive all the support they need to achieve lasting recovery.

How Can We Help?

Our team of licensed and experienced professionals uses evidence-based treatment techniques. We develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals.

Our techniques include cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and motivational interviewing. We also offer holistic therapies.

Reach Out for Unyielding Support and Personalized Treatment

We are the place for anyone in the recovery community. We provide the highest quality of care, with compassion, respect, and understanding.

Are you struggling with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders? To learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment facility, contact us today.

We will help you every step of the way during the recovery process to ensure overall healing.

Resources

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/addictions/substance-abuse-and-mental-health.htm#:~:text=Roughly%2050%20percent%20of%20individuals,least%20one%20serious%20mental%20illness
https://medlineplus.gov/dualdiagnosis.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8699555/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8939890/#:~:text=Motivational%20interviewing%20(MI)%20is%20a%20psychological%20treatment%20that%20aims%20to,about%20one%20hour%20each%20time

Questions About Treatment?

If you or a loved one have questions regarding recovery, or are to begin regaining autonomy over your health and well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to True Life Care for support. We are here to empower you to lead the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life you deserve.