Dual Diagnosis Drug Treatment
There are many factors that go into quality drug rehab treatment for addiction. The most important aspect that a drug treatment center can focus on when creating a treatment plan for a client is the personal background information of the individual. Personalizing an effective recovery process based on an individual’s mental, substance abuse, and family history is essential for positive outcomes.
One of a more common issue drug treatment centers see in individuals is a dual diagnosis assessment. This co-occurring disorder diagnosis is a mental health disorder along with a substance abuse disorder. Not all drug treatment centers have the ability to take on these types of individuals. A common mental health disorder occurring in drug rehab clients is Bipolar Disorder.
Bipolar Disorder and Substance Abuse Disorder co-occur in about 61% of those with Type I bipolar and 48% of those with Type II bipolar. Subgroups of the bipolar population have are more prone to Substance Use Disorder like men, those with rapid cycling, and those who are diagnosed at the typical age of onset (between 20 and 30)
Some significant issues this population faces are in regards to medication management, effects of current and past drug use on medication interactions, and poor treatment adherence. Also there is an increased risk of suicide, increased health concerns due to medication, and lack of appropriate research for this specific subgroup.
Relapse bipolar symptoms are another problem because of the increased risk for discontinuance of treatment, suicide, and substance abuse when this occurs. Even with medication relapse rates of bipolar symptoms are as high as 40% within the first year, 60% within two years, and 73% within five or more years. Medications such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and antipsychotics are prescribed to help deal with the symptoms.
Current research suggests that the most effective form of recovery at a drug rehab center is integrated treatment. This is when recovery and relapse prevention from both disorders is taught simultaneously, usually involving group therapy and psycho educational groups. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been shown to be an effective modality to use in integrated therapy. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy also has shown promising results in helping decrease symptomology of both disorders.