Charleston Addiction and Mental Illness Treatment

Addiction and Mental Illness Treatment Charleston SC (877) 804-1531

When mental health symptoms are found along with addiction problems, patients are said to have an addiction and mental illness or co-existing disorders. In some ways, these common co-existing disorders can complicate treatment of the addiction. Withdrawing from the addictive substance can cause an increase in symptoms that can be extremely disturbing to the patient. Charleston addiction and mental illness treatment is critical to the patient's success in recovery.

Explore your options for treatment by contacting dual diagnosis treatment centers in Charleston. Call (877) 804-1531 for more information.

What Are Co-Existing Disorders?

Statistics suggest that mental health problems often co-occur with addiction problems. Experts believe that, in these cases, substance abuse may be an attempt to treat the symptoms of the mental health condition. The addiction follows as a result of this attempt at "self-treatment." When the underlying condition is properly diagnosed and treated, the patient experiences fewer mental health problems and can fully participate in the treatment efforts, increasing the odds of success.

Common Co-Existing Disorders

• Depression - People with depression may use alcohol to lift mood and reduce inhibitions, or use stimulants to increase their energy.
• Anxiety - Individuals with anxiety and panic disorders may use opiates or other narcotics to reduce tension and nervousness.
• Schizophrenia - Individuals with schizophrenia often use alcohol to quell the disturbing delusions that often accompany this condition.
• Bipolar Disorder - The manic highs and deep lows of bipolar disorder may cause some individuals to use alcohol and stimulants to regulate their moods.

What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Dual diagnosis recognizes the essential role that mental health issues play in the development of, and recovery from, addiction. Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of the mental health problem can be of significant help in facilitating the treatment process. Ensuring that aftercare includes community referrals for mental health problems can decrease the rate of relapse and help patients make better progress toward recovery after treatment.

When common co-existing disorders are treated along with the addiction problem, patients are more likely to achieve success in their recovery, with fewer relapses and greater ability to rebuild normal lives.

To discuss your treatment options, call Charleston drug addiction treatment centers. You can also visit your local Narcotics Anonymous (http://www.usrecovery.info/NA/South-Carolina.htm) for more support.