When someone is battling addiction, the focus is often placed solely on the substance use. But for many individuals, there’s a deeper story beneath the surface—one that includes anxiety, depression, PTSD, or another untreated mental health condition. This is where dual diagnosis treatment becomes essential.
At Solace Treatment Center, we believe healing from addiction isn’t just about getting clean—it’s about addressing the full picture. That’s why we offer integrated, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
What Is Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis—also known as co-occurring disorders—refers to the presence of both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition. This could be:
Depression and alcoholism
Anxiety and stimulant abuse
PTSD and opioid dependency
Bipolar disorder and cannabis misuse
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 50% of people who experience a substance use disorder will also experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives.
Unfortunately, many treatment programs still separate the two, leading to partial recovery or relapse. At Solace Treatment Center, we offer dual diagnosis treatment that targets both conditions at the same time for more lasting results.
Why Mental Health and Addiction Often Go Hand-in-Hand
The relationship between mental health and substance use is complex and often bidirectional:
People struggling with anxiety or depression may use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate.
Substance abuse can worsen or trigger symptoms of mental illness.
Trauma, brain chemistry, and genetics can contribute to both.
As noted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), people with mental health disorders are twice as likely to struggle with addiction.
That’s why dual diagnosis treatment isn’t just helpful—it’s critical.
Warning Signs of a Dual Diagnosis
Some signs may indicate the presence of both a mental health and substance use disorder. These include:
Mood swings or extreme emotional reactions
Frequent relapse or inability to stay sober
Social withdrawal or isolation
Sleeping too much or too little
Using substances to manage emotions or trauma
Panic attacks, paranoia, or delusional thinking
If these symptoms sound familiar, dual diagnosis treatment may be the best path forward.
What Dual Diagnosis Treatment Looks Like at Solace
Our program at Solace Treatment Center is designed to meet the needs of clients with complex histories and layered challenges. Here’s what our dual diagnosis treatment process includes:
1. Integrated Assessment
We begin with a comprehensive mental health and addiction evaluation. This ensures that we’re treating the whole person—not just symptoms.
2. Individualized Care Plan
Clients receive a customized treatment plan that includes therapy, medication (if appropriate), relapse prevention strategies, and ongoing psychiatric support.
3. Evidence-Based Therapies
We use proven methods including:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to reframe harmful thought patterns
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to manage intense emotions
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) when appropriate
The American Psychological Association (APA) emphasizes the importance of these therapies for long-term success in co-occurring treatment settings.
4. Group Support and Peer Connection
Clients participate in therapeutic groups where they can share experiences, build community, and learn from others in similar situations.
5. Family Therapy and Support
We understand that addiction and mental illness impact entire families. Our program includes sessions to help rebuild trust and improve communication.
The Benefits of Treating Both Conditions Together
When mental health and substance use disorders are treated in tandem, the benefits multiply:
Fewer relapses
Improved emotional stability
Greater self-awareness
More effective coping strategies
Healthier relationships
In contrast, ignoring one condition can cause both to worsen. As outlined by Psychology Today, integrated care is essential for long-term healing.
Continuing Care After Dual Diagnosis Treatment
At Solace Treatment Center, recovery doesn’t end when a client finishes inpatient care. We provide a full continuum of support, including:
Outpatient therapy
Sober living recommendations
Psychiatric check-ins and medication management
Relapse prevention planning
Aftercare coaching and alumni services
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), staying connected with mental health support after treatment significantly improves quality of life and recovery outcomes.
You Deserve Holistic Healing
Whether you’re struggling with substance use, mental health symptoms, or both—there’s hope. Dual diagnosis treatment can help you reclaim your life by getting to the root of your struggles and providing tools for lasting recovery.
At Solace Treatment Center, we’re here to support you through every step of that journey—with compassion, clinical expertise, and care that sees the full you.
Get Help Today
If you or a loved one may benefit from dual diagnosis treatment, reach out to our team for a confidential consultation. We’re ready to help you take the first step toward total recovery.
Visit www.solacetreatmentcenter.com to learn more or contact our admissions team today.
