Dual Diagnosis Treatment Specialist in Rochester, NY

Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, refers to the presence of a mental health disorder and substance abuse issues at the same time. This diagnosis requires a holistic approach to treatment that considers all aspects of the patient’s health. In the United States, 17 million adults had co-occurring disorders in 2020.

Individuals with dual diagnosis can experience a range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alongside substance use disorders involving alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications. There is an interconnected nature to dual diagnosis which poses various unique challenges. One condition will worsen the symptoms of the other, meaning that if substance abuse increases, the presence of mental health issues tends to increase as well, and vice versa.

To properly address this vicious cycle, our team will develop a tailored approach that typically includes talk therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. Our goal is to provide you with not just symptom management but a comprehensive strategy for long-term recovery. The focus is on helping you overcome the complexities that come with dual diagnosis. By visiting Westfall Associates, you can find hope for a lasting recovery and enhance your wellness.

It’s quite common for people with mental health challenges to turn to substance use as a way to cope with the various symptoms that are caused by their disorder, such as depression, schizophrenia, or PTSD. When overwhelmed by the symptoms, people may seek the temporary relief that substances can grant from emotional pain, and get addicted.

Substance use provides a fleeting sense of relief and can contribute to the development or worsening of a plethora of mental health disorders. Overall, the complex interplay between substance use and mental wellness creates a cycle that is challenging to break without targeted, professional intervention.

In addition, genetic as well as environmental factors, such as stress and trauma, can contribute to the co-occurrence of these disorders. To get to the root of the issue, the healthcare professional will conduct a thorough evaluation to understand your unique circumstances. This process allows our practitioners to deliver highly effective and personalized treatment to those with dual diagnosis.

If you believe you have a mental health condition as well as a substance use problem, the first step is to come in for a visit with a specialist. The process begins with a thorough evaluation conducted by one of our practitioners. This assessment will involve an in-depth discussion of your mental health history as well as your substance use history. The expert will consider various factors such as your genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and the severity of your symptoms. Open communication about your experiences, questions, and concerns is crucial during this consultation as it will support the diagnostic process.

If it’s determined that a co-occurring mental health disorder and substance use disorder are present, the doctor will let you know and discuss the next steps. After the diagnosis, the expert will create a tailored treatment plan to address your symptoms and enhance your well-being. We’re here to support you each step of the way!

A significant challenge of dual diagnosis is the potential for complications. These can arise due to the interplay between the underlying mental health disorder and substance use. Those with dual diagnosis often experience intense symptoms that require adaptations in treatment. In addition, those with dual diagnosis face a higher risk of relapse, poor medication management, and aggression if both aspects of their condition are not adequately managed. An elevated risk of incarceration and suicidal ideation is also present.

Due to the various risks associated with dual diagnosis, it’s important to seek professional support to address both conditions properly and simultaneously. Our team is here to provide comprehensive support and set you up for a successful journey to sustained recovery. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 919 Westfall Road Building B, Suite 60 Rochester, NY 14618. We serve patients from Rochester NY, Brighton NY, West Henrietta NY, East Rochester NY, Irondequoit NY, Greece NY, and surrounding areas.