Co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (SUDs) are extremely common. The go-to treatment for this dual diagnosis usually lies in traditional modalities, but for some, they can leave a lot to be desired. Many treatment centers are now turning to holistic healing to complement these traditional methods. This type of care can bring a breath of fresh air to your recovery journey.
Dual Diagnosis
When someone has a co-occurring mental health and SUD, it is called “dual diagnosis” or “co-morbidity.” According to Medline Plus, mental health and SUDs occur together frequently. About half of people who have SUD will also have a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. For example, anxiety can commonly occur in those who experience alcohol addiction. The opposite is also true. Many people who struggle with mental health disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can go on to develop a drug or alcohol addiction at any point in their lives.
Dangers of Dual Diagnosis
When two or more conditions interact, they may get worse and can become more difficult to manage. According to Alcohol Health and Research World, clients with dual diagnoses “require more services than patients with a single disorder.” Co-occurring disorders can be dangerous when left untreated. Individuals may be more prone to suicide and have higher rates of homelessness, legal problems, health issues, and more frequent hospitalizations.
Why Is Dual Diagnosis So Common?
Even though mental health conditions and SUDs occur frequently together, it can be difficult to pinpoint which came first. According to Medline Plus, researchers have grouped together three main possibilities that explain why dual diagnosis may occur:
- Common risk factors including genetics, stress, and trauma.
- The mental health disorder came first, and people self-medicate with substances for temporary relief. A mental health disorder may also interfere with brain functioning, making it more likely that you develop SUD.
- The SUD came first. This can change your brain in ways that make it more likely to develop a mental health disorder.
What Does “Holistic Healing” Mean?
According to a 2021 review in Advances in Mind-Body Medicine, holistic medicine is “the art and science of healing that addresses the whole person-body, mind and spirit.” This broad discipline contains a wide range of practices that are generally aimed at improving overall health instead of focusing on just one area.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Holistic healing usually falls under the umbrella of “complementary and alternative medicine” (CAM). When used in conjunction with traditional treatments, these practices can greatly improve the chances of sustained recovery.
Holistic Healing and Traditional Therapies
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), complementary practices can “provide additional tools that can enhance various aspects of the patients recovery.” They’re meant to take the place of traditional treatments, but many patients do find them more enjoyable. Holistic modalities can include mind-body and energy healing practices, as well as body-focused techniques. Acupuncture, deep breathing, yoga, and meditation are all considered to be holistic treatments.
Holistic Healing for Dual Diagnosis
For individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, holistic practices can go a long way. They can help you develop better ways to cope with triggers and external stressors. This can lower the chance of relapse and help you find the confidence you need to continue along your recovery journey.
Holistic practices can also help you improve self-care and develop a better relationship with yourself. These elements are crucial for those with dual diagnosis. According to the VA, holistic modalities can even enhance the healing process in SUDs.
Healing at The Guest House
As a trauma-specific recovery center, here at The Guest House, we focus on therapies to help you heal your mind, body, and soul as one. If you have a co-occurring disorder, it’s more important than ever to find the therapies and treatments that work best for your unique situation. At The Guest House, every single one of our guests receives completely individualized care with a plan that suits their unique needs.
Dual Diagnosis
Here at The Guest House, our founders were deeply impacted by co-occurring disorders. This is why our program is ahead of the curve when it comes to offering the right treatment for your concerns. We offer a variety of therapeutic modalities to address your specific and unique needs. At The Guest House, we encourage you to explore all of our methods so you can find those you resonate with the most.
Holistic Care
Your recovery journey doesn’t have to always be difficult. Instead, you can find fun and excitement in holistic remedies aimed to help you find lasting peace and happiness. At The Guest House, we offer a wide range of holistic healing practices that will empower you through your journey and allow you to re-discover your personal identity.
Co-occurring disorders can make you feel like you have lost control. This is why we encourage our guests to explore holistic healing methods like meditation, yoga, and breathwork to help you regain a feeling of safety in your mind, body, and soul. If you’re looking for excitement, we offer outdoor therapies that will stretch you to new heights. You may want to explore the great outdoors in our adventure therapy program or simply enjoy your time among our beautiful 52-acre estate.
Instead of letting your struggles take control, you can take your power back one step at a time at The Guest House.
Dual diagnosis is extremely common for those struggling with mental health disorders and addiction. In fact, it occurs in almost half of people who experience SUD. At The Guest House, we employ a variety of holistic healing methods to help you overcome your struggles one day at a time. Here, you can explore exciting options like adventure therapy that will stretch you to new heights. You can also regain a sense of safety in your mind, body, and soul through practices like meditation and conscious connected breathwork. At The Guest House, you can regain your sense of individuality and find lasting success through your recovery journey. Call us at (855) 483-7800.