Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore- Thors Therapy

Every year on October 10, people around the world observe World Mental Health day, with the overall objective of raising awareness of mental health issues globally and mobilizing efforts in support of mental health. This year, the theme of World Mental Health Day is mental health in the workplace. Depression and anxiety disorders are common mental health issues that have an enormous impact on the ability to not only work, but also work productively and efficiently.

Studies have shown that individuals who suffer from mental illness, such as depression or anxiety, are much more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol in order to cope. When an individual is suffering from both mental illness and a substance abuse disorder simultaneously, that is known as dual diagnosis. Either the mental illness or substance abuse disorder can form first, however, one issue usually exacerbates the other. In fact, nearly 4 million Americans who struggled with a mental health disorder were also diagnosed with a co-occurring mental health disorder.

It is important that patients with a dual diagnosis are treated for both the substance abuse and mental health disorder while in treatment. If only one issue is treated and the other neglected, any effort at recovery will be futile. Though dual diagnosis is a much more complicated process than substance abuse treatment alone, it is essential that the client be treated holistically with an integrated treatment plan.

If you or a loved one are struggling with both substance abuse and a mental health disorder, do not hesitate to call us at (888)507-1355 to speak with a trained treatment specialist. Though dual diagnosis cases are more complicated than only dealing with substance abuse, you do not have to walk alone. We can customize an integrated treatment plan suited to your unique mental health and recovery needs on your path to health and wholeness.

The best way out is always through. –Robert Frost