Millions of people live with a mental health condition and substance use disorder (SUD). Mental health and medical experts refer to people with a mental health condition and SUD as having a “dual diagnosis.”
Co-occurring mental health disorders and SUD can make many aspects of life more challenging. These conditions can put people’s mental and physical health at risk. They may also impact relationships, quality of life, and other aspects of daily life.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment used to address specific mental health conditions. Dual diagnosis treatment programs may offer DBT to help clients develop practical coping skills. DBT programs can also improve emotional regulation in recovery.
This article will explore how DBT may help clients in dual diagnosis treatment programs. You will learn:
What you will learn:
- What it means to have a dual diagnosis
- What happens in dual diagnosis treatment
- How DBT works
- The benefits of using DBT in dual diagnosis treatment
- Where to find comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment programs
If you or a loved one needs treatment to manage co-occurring mental health disorders and SUD, you are not alone. Find compassionate, evidence-based treatment programs at Alamo Behavioral Health. Our mental health and medical specialists create customized treatment plans. This allows each person to receive the care they need to manage mental health issues and overcome substance abuse.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health intake team to explore your treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What Happens in Dual Diagnosis Treatment?
Substance abuse can worsen the symptoms of a mental health condition. Similarly, the symptoms of a mental health condition may worsen substance use or interfere with substance abuse treatment.
A dual diagnosis means that someone is living with substance use disorder and a mental health condition. People with dual diagnoses require specialized treatment for both conditions.
Dual diagnosis treatment approaches may include:
- Diagnostic testing, assessments, and screenings
- Medically-supported detox programs
- Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and mental health symptoms
- Individual, group, and family therapy sessions
- Behavioral therapies, including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Psychoeducation about preventing relapse, managing emotions, and engaging in healthy coping behaviors
- Holistic therapies, including exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and creative expression
- Specialized mental health therapies or support groups
- Aftercare planning
Dual diagnosis treatment options can help people overcome drug or alcohol abuse while learning to manage their mental health symptoms effectively. Finding comprehensive, high-quality treatment programs that offer simultaneous treatment for both conditions is critical.
Find supportive, high-quality dual diagnosis treatment at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.
What is DBT?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of talk therapy. Licensed mental health professionals work with clients one-to-one or in groups. DBT can help people identify and change destructive behaviors and thoughts. It gives people practical skills to manage intense emotions and reduce harmful behaviors.
Here is an overview of the foundations of DBT.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is one of the most critical aspects of DBT. During DBT sessions, people learn how to maintain a focus on the present moment. This can help people gain better control over their thoughts and behaviors.
Distress tolerance
People learn mindfulness and other skills, like self-soothing and distraction, to tolerate distress more effectively. These skills may help people reduce impulsive behaviors, including substance use and self-harm.
Interpersonal effectiveness
DBT can help people have healthier relationships with others. They learn how to communicate more effectively, set boundaries, and maintain healthier relationships.
Emotional regulation
People learn how to recognize and name their emotions in DBT. Greater self-awareness of emotions can help people regulate their responses to intense feelings.
DBT therapists use a range of techniques, including:
- Coaching
- Guiding practices
- Telling stories
- Giving feedback
- Providing instructions
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about how DBT works or to schedule an intake appointment.
The Benefits of Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can help people reduce impulsive behaviors, including substance use. It helps people identify and change destructive thoughts and behaviors. This can lead to long-lasting and meaningful changes that support recovery.
Some of the benefits of including DBT in a SUD treatment plan include:
- Helping people recognize emotional and relapse triggers
- Reducing cravings
- Helping people develop practical skills to reduce impulsive behaviors
- Reducing problematic thoughts and behaviors that may threaten recovery
- Increasing emotional control and resilience
- Helping people create and maintain healthier relationships and stronger ties to the community
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about the benefits of DBT in dual diagnosis treatment. You may also reach out to ask questions or explore your treatment options.
Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment Now
If you or someone you love needs dual diagnosis treatment, find care at Alamo Behavioral Health. Explore our effective, evidence-based treatment programs or schedule an intake assessment by contacting our specialists today.
