Supplementary treatment for drug abuse and mental health: Dual diagnosis
In our previous discussions we have dealt with several means and ways of administering treatment for substance abuse and mental health problems. However, when dealing with matters of this magnitude every possibility of nailing the problem must be embraced because our primary objective is to eliminate the problem in it’s entirely. That is why we want to take time and discuss the supplementary treatment for drug abuse and mental health problems in this article. Doctor Dalal Akoury MD, who is a veteran addiction expert is going to help us bring this discussion to perspective. As a professional, doctor Akoury registers that there are many supplementary treatment options for drug abuse and mental health so of which may include the following:
- Group support for substance abuse and co-occurring disorders
- Self-help for substance abuse and co-occurring disorders
- Reorganizing and managing overwhelming stress and emotions
- Stay connected
- Make healthy lifestyle changes
- Helping a loved one with a substance abuse problem and a mental health problem
Supplementary treatment for drug abuse and mental health: Group support
It is always said that a problem shared is half solved. That is the principle applicable here with groupings. And just like with other addictions, groups are very helpful, not only in maintaining sobriety, but also as a safe place to get support and discuss challenges and experiences. Sometimes treatment programs for co-occurring disorders provide groups that continue to meet on an aftercare basis. Your doctor or treatment provider may also be able to refer you to a group for people with co-occurring disorders.
It is important to note that while it’s often best to join a group that addresses both substance abuse and your mental health disorder the twelve-step groups for substance abuse can also be helpful besides today such services are well spread globally making accessibility much easier. These free programs, facilitated by peers, use group support and a set of guided principles like the twelve steps to obtain and maintain sobriety. Doctor Akoury advices that even as you opt for these groups you must make sure that the group is embracing the idea of co-occurring disorders and psychiatric medication. This is very important for you because at this time all you need is a place where you will feel safe and not where you will feel pressured in any way.
Supplementary treatment for drug abuse and mental health: Self-help for substance abuse and co-occurring disorders
Getting sober is only the beginning. Your continued recovery depends on continuing mental health treatment, learning healthier coping strategies, and making better decisions when dealing with life’s challenges. And this you can achieve by adopting the following:
Recognize and manage stress and emotions
Stress management – Even though stress is inevitable in this generation, it’s very important to have healthy coping skills so that you can deal with stress without turning to alcohol or drugs. Stress management skills go a long way towards preventing relapse and keeping your symptoms at bay.
Identify your triggers and have an action plan – If you’re coping with a mental disorder as well, it’s especially important to know signs that your illness is flaring up. Common causes include stressful events, big life changes, or unhealthy sleeping or eating. At these times, having a plan in place is essential to preventing drug relapse. Who will you talk to? What do you need to do?
Supplementary treatment for drug abuse and mental health: Dual diagnosis
