Dual Diagnosis Florida
Definition of dual diagnosis
Dual diagnosis is the terminology that describes an individual who is suffering with a comorbid condition characterized by an alcohol or drug dependency problem that exists simultaneously with a mental illness such as a behavior or psychological disorder. It can be used in a broader sense, for example alcoholism and depression. Or it can be used to specify a more serious mental condition such as schizophrenia and substance dependency (e.g. cocaine, heroin, marijuana, etc.).
Dual diagnosis theories
Our dual diagnosis Florida program understands that there are several theories that can explain the relationship that exists between a mental illness and a substance dependency problem. Several theories have been identified in order to explain the mental illness/substance dependency relationship including:
Alleviation of dysphoria – suggests that individuals with severe mental illness do not feel good about who they are and can alleviate their feelings by using a psychoactive substance.
Causility – suggests that the substance abuse or dependency can lead to the onset of the mental illness.
Multiple risk factors – infers that certain risk factors in life can lead to the onset of the comorbid condition. These factors include:
- associating with individuals who have a substance abuse or dependency problem
- lack of any adult role accountability and responsibility
- lack of any structured activities during the day
- living in a neighborhood where drug availability is extremely high
- poverty
- social isolation
Self-medication – the misuse of a substance to counteract an anti-psychotic medication’s negative side effects as well as relieving specific symptoms of the disorder.
Supersensitivity – speculates that an individual suffering with a severe mental illness also has certain biological and/or psychological vulnerabilities that have resulted due to early environmental or genetic life events.
Considering the key dual diagnosis theories, we have formulated a exclusive program dealing with all addicted individuals that are afflicted with mental disorders and addictions. This program entails proper diagnosis, treatment of the disease and addictions such that each of them can be simultaneously cured and do not effect the other corresponding treatment. Our team of addiction specialists and medical staff has years of experience dealing with dual diagnosis clients and with high success rates, the individual can be assured of excellent treatment.
The Delray Recovery Center can help with dual diagnosis
Our addiction treatment and recovery center realizes that many individuals will resort to self-medication in order to manage underlying behavioral or psychological issues. The dual diagnosis Florida treatment and recovery program addresses these underlying issues using specific therapies without administering any psychotropic medications. For more information about our facility and programs, please contact us at the toll-free phone number above.
