Must-Have Characteristics for Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers Near Me

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, approximately 26% of US citizens ages 18 and older (which translates to roughly 1 in 4 adults) suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Examples of these psychological conditions include post-traumatic stress disorder, chronic depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Within this same group of people, a significant fraction battles a substance use disorder simultaneously, be it alcohol or drugs. This combination of disorders is called a dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring or comorbid disorders.

If you, a friend, or a family member has been diagnosed with co-occurring disorders, you can always seek effective help at a dual diagnosis treatment center near you. 

This approach has tons of benefits, but perhaps the most important one is that it minimizes the negative consequences of under-treated disorders, cuts down on the cost of treatment, and optimizes outcomes.

That said, you might be wondering, “how do I find the best dual diagnosis treatment centers near me?” 

Here are 4 essential characteristics to look out for.

1. Treatment Based on Scientific Evidence

An excellent dual diagnosis treatment center has well-trained staff with extensive experience in managing drug/ substance abuse and mental health issues using proven approaches backed by scientific research.

Some effective tried-and-tested treatment approaches include detox sub-acute cleansing, which is ideal if you are undergoing recovery with less severe withdrawal symptoms.

2. Multiple Channel Exposure Therapy

This treatment was developed to manage post-traumatic stress disorder with comorbid panic attacks and is often administered in a group.

Group treatment for patients with post-traumatic stress disorder is seen as an effective way of addressing the shame associated with the traumatic event as well as social isolation in general. 

You want to find a center that offers this type of treatment if you or someone you know needs help with PTSD and concurrent substance abuse.

3. Are There Personalized Programs at Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers Near Me?

Another important consideration when choosing a dual-diagnosis treatment facility is the availability of personalized programs. A customized plan will prove effective in helping you manage various mental health disorders, physical ailments, and addictions.

Typically, your therapist will assess your physical, nutritional, emotional, and mental needs during your first visit. Next, they will devise an individualized treatment plan that is ideal for you. 

Whether you need help with an anxiety disorder or group support meetings, the right treatment center will have the right options for you.

4. Relapse Prevention Therapy

This is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that aims to prevent patients from relapsing by helping them avoid situations likely to trigger a relapse. It also helps you create a strategy for coping with such high-risk situations in advance that could trigger a relapse.

This way, if your addiction had a direct impact on your mental health, you’ll be better poised to recover from both.

Start Your Recovery Journey with the Best Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center

If you are struggling with a mental health and drug/ substance use disorder simultaneously, you can get better by getting treatment at a dual diagnosis treatment center near you. 

Just be sure to look out for these characteristics to ensure you find a dual diagnosis treatment center that suits your needs the most.