Dual Diagnosis

Researchers, mental health professionals and chemical dependency treatment providers are finding that dual disorders occur with regular frequency. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has determined that dual diagnoses affect more than 10 million Americans each year.

The terms “co-occurring” and “dual diagnosis” are often used interchangeably, and describe a condition where a person is affected by both chemical dependency and an emotional or psychiatric illness. Individuals who experience a dual diagnosis often face a wide range of psychosocial issues and may experience more than two interacting illnesses.

We are continuing to discover more about the specific causes of psychiatric illness and chemical dependency. We know that family history, genetics, brain chemistry and environmental factors all appear to play important roles.

Common Problems with Co-Occurring Disorders

There are several common issues associated with co-occurring disorders. These include:

• Family and social problems
• Employment or school problems
• High-risk behavior
• DUI
• Multiple admissions to residential/outpatient treatment due to chemical relapse
• Multiple admissions for psychiatric care due to reoccurrence of psychiatric symptoms
• Increased emergency room admissions
• Increased need for acute health care services
• Legal problems and incarceration

The FRN Atlanta Difference

The best option for treating co-occurring disorders is an integrated treatment model. Here at FRN Atlanta, patients are treated for both their chemical addiction and any psychiatric disease, approaching both as two separate entities but also treating them simultaneously.

We are nationally recognized for integrative and evidence-based methods that have produced proven results for individuals dealing with substance abuse issues and co-occurring mental health disorders.

Our Dual Diagnosis approach provides the best opportunity for you or your loved one to achieve complete and lasting recovery. If you have any questions about co-occurring disorders, please contact us at the toll-free number at the top of this page. Admissions counselors are available 24 hours a day.