Addressing Dual Diagnosis

1. Here is some basic information about treatment options for
dual diagnosis patients — those who have a mental illness
as well as an addiction issue.
columnhealth.com
Addressing
Dual Diagnosis:
Mental Health Disorders
& Substance Abuse
DAILY THERAPY
Receiving daily therapy from
professional staff at a treatment
center helps many dual diagnosis
patients cope with their issues and
make better choices.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Just like in outpatient treatment,
support groups give dual diagnosis
patients a more social setting that
encourages emotional growth.
COMMUNITY
Dual diagnosis patients in an
inpatient environment form a sense of
community with others who also are
learning how to live without drugs or
alcohol, while also being treated for
mental illness.
EDUCATION
An inpatient treatment environment
gives patients more educational
options to help them cope with
both substance abuse and mental
health issues.
Inpatient Treatment Options
SUPPORT GROUPS
Twelve-step programs and peer
support groups are used frequently
and have proved effective in helping
people with dual diagnosis because of
the emotional component they provide
in addition to therapy.
MEDICATION
MANAGEMENT
Used in coordination with behavioral
therapy, medication can help people
with dual diagnosis better control
their behavior and impulses.
INDIVIDUAL AND
FAMILY THERAPY
Therapeutic efforts guided by a
qualified therapist help dual diagnosis
patients take better care of themselves.
Additionally, family therapy helps
patients’ loved ones understand their
needs more completely.
INDEPENDENT
LIVING SUPPORT
With a counselor or therapist’s help,
many people with dual diagnosis
have the support they need to
continue living independently while
receiving treatment.
Outpatient Treatment Options