One of the things that sets Lakeview Health apart is our attention to the whole patient. There are many ways in which we make this our priority. One of the most important involves our dual-diagnosis program. Many people who suffer from drug addiction also suffer from a co-existing illness that affects their mental state. We refer to individuals with psychological issues that drive their addiction as “dually diagnosed.” In most cases, a dual diagnosis involves one or more of the most common mental health disorders.
When it comes to addiction and mental health treatment, it is necessary to treat both issues. At Lakeview, dual diagnosis focuses on treating the patient’s drug or alcohol addiction. But it also addresses the underlying mental health issue that is operating in conjunction with the addiction. By attending a dual-diagnosis treatment center like Lakeview Health, an individual can recover from both illnesses simultaneously. But before doing so, it is a good idea to understand which are the most common mental health disorders associated with addiction.
The Most Common Mental Health Disorders
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, mental health disorders are becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among adolescents. There are, of course, a broad range of common mental health disorders. And there is an even more extensive range of symptoms, particularly in terms of severity. Such a wide variety of circumstances can trigger these issues that it is nearly impossible to make general statements about their causes. We do know, however, which are the most common mental health disorders that accompany addiction. They are:
- Anxiety disorders (phobias, social anxiety)
- Developmental disorders (ADHD, autism spectrum disorders)
- Mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorders)
- Personality disorders (antisocial behavior, paranoia)
- Thought disorders (schizophrenia, delusional behavior)
- Eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia)
And addiction — clinically known as “substance use disorder” is also considered a common mental health disorder on its own.
Treating Common Mental Health Disorders with Dual Diagnosis
A quality dual diagnosis treatment center like Lakeview Health will have certified addiction professionals with experience treating common mental health disorders. The two conditions must be treated independently if an individual is going to be able to achieve long term sobriety. But they must also be treated simultaneously, which can be challenging. Having to cope with alcohol and drug addiction is never easy, and it is more difficult when having to deal with mental illness as well.
But by getting the proper treatment, it is possible to recover from both addiction and mental illness. And at Lakeview Health, we have seen it happen again and again in our two decades treating patients.
Contact Lakeview Health Today
At Lakeview, we understand that a person is more than just their addiction. This is why we go to great lengths to treat the underlying issues — like these common mental health disorders — that drive addiction. Over the last two decades, we have made a national name for ourselves for this reason.
At Lakeview, we offer multiple levels of care, including medically supervised detoxification, a residential addiction treatment plan, outpatient care, and a comprehensive aftercare program. We also offer numerous levels and varieties of counseling and a reintegration program aimed at helping individuals who are moving on from addiction successfully.
If you or someone you love is suffering from one of the more common mental health disorders and needs help, our team of difference-makers at Lakeview Health is an excellent place to start. Contact us using our secure online form today. Moving on from addiction is never easy, particularly when you are suffering from mental health issues. But with support, you can take your life back.
