New Mexico Dual Diagnosis Treatment Opportunities
Transform your recovery journey with our personalized and integrated dual diagnosis treatment at Vista Taos Renewal Center.
Our Commitment to Holistic Healing
At Vista Taos Renewal Center, we believe recovery is a journey that encompasses the whole person. Our holistic dual diagnosis treatment approach recognizes that addiction is often intertwined with mental health struggles and lifestyle choices.
We create individualized treatment plans that address each client’s unique needs. These plans combine evidence-based therapies, medication management (if necessary), and complementary treatments like nutrition and mindfulness.
Our comprehensive approach ensures clients have the tools they need to heal from addiction and thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Breaking the Cycle with Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Many people struggling with addiction also have a mental health disorder. This is known as dual diagnosis, co-occurring disorders, or comorbidity. Co-occurring disorders can worsen each other, making it difficult to break the cycle on your own.
Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both issues simultaneously, treating the addiction and the underlying mental health disorder. This approach helps people heal from both conditions and develop the tools they need to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Understanding Dual Diagnosis
Dual diagnosis refers to the condition where a person simultaneously experiences a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. This can include conditions like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder alongside an addiction to alcohol, drugs, or other substances.
How Common Is Dual Diagnosis?
The prevalence of dual diagnosis is significant among those seeking help for addiction. The most recent national survey showed that over 21.5 million people in the United States have a dual diagnosis.1
Among adolescents and young adults admitted to psychiatric hospitals for mental health challenges, 48% have a dual diagnosis.2
The Complexity of Dual Diagnosis and Treatment Challenges
Dual diagnosis presents a complex situation because addiction and mental health disorders can fuel each other in a vicious cycle.
For example, a person suffering from anxiety might use alcohol to self-medicate. However, alcohol use can increase anxiety over time, especially as the body’s dependence on alcohol grows.
Similarly, managing the effects of substance use can exacerbate mental health symptoms. This complicates the treatment process significantly.
This bidirectional influence means that treating one issue without addressing the other often leads to incomplete recovery and a high risk of relapse.
Challenges in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Here are some specific challenges faced in dual diagnosis treatment:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Symptoms of addiction can mimic mental health disorders. That is why an accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
- Treatment Approach: Each person experiences addiction and mental health issues differently. A one-size-fits-all treatment plan won’t work.
- Coordination of Care: Dual diagnosis often requires collaboration between addiction specialists and mental health professionals. Without a diversified team, treating this condition becomes challenging.
A Holistic Approach to Dual Diagnosis Treatment by Vista Taos
Our approach to dual diagnosis treatment recognizes that the path to recovery must address both the physical symptoms of addiction and the mental health challenges that accompany it. That is why our methods are designed to treat the whole person, not just the illness.
Personalized Dual Diagnosis Treatment Plans
Upon admission to Vista Taos Renewal Center, each client undergoes a comprehensive initial assessment process. The information gathered from this assessment becomes the foundation for building personalized treatment plans.
The process involves several key steps:
Intake Interview
The intake interview is a detailed discussion in which clients provide information about their conditions.
This may include describing:
- Medical history
- Substance use history
- Mental health status
- Support systems
This interview helps the team understand the client’s background and identify underlying factors.
Medical Evaluation
Medical evaluation aims to assess physical health and identify any medical issues that could influence treatment options.
This evaluation may include:
- A review of physical health concerns
- Screenings for substances
- Necessary lab tests
Psychological Assessment
A thorough psychological assessment by an expert helps diagnose any existing mental health disorders. This may involve standardized diagnostic tests and evaluations to gauge emotional and cognitive functioning.
Risk Assessment
Risk assessment involves evaluating the client’s risk factors, including the potential for self-harm or harm to others. This information offers insight into immediate care needs and the level of monitoring required.
Multidisciplinary Team
The multidisciplinary team approach at Vista Taos Renewal Center is crucial for effectively managing co-occurring disorders.
This diverse team includes:
- Psychiatrists
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Therapists
- Addiction specialists
- Recovery advocates
- Movement and yoga instructors
Each professional brings specialized expertise. This collaboration is necessary because it enhances the quality of care and ensures consistent and continuous treatment.
Integrated Treatment Modalities for Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Vista Taos Renewal Center utilizes a range of evidence-based therapies. The most common include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It teaches clients how to separate distorted perceptions from reality. This improves emotional regulation, making it easier to manage depression, anxiety, and triggers.
Numerous studies have proven CBT to be an effective treatment modality. For example, one study found that 32.9% of participants with anxiety in a CBT treatment group showed improvement compared to 11.6% in a wait-list control (WLC).3
The results of another study revealed that 60% of CBT patients provided clean toxicology screens at a 52-week follow-up. This highlights the long-term effectiveness of CBT in maintaining sobriety.4
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is particularly effective for treating people with emotional and behavioral dysregulation. It teaches important skills, such as:
- Mindfulness
- Distress tolerance
- Emotional regulation
- Interpersonal effectiveness
These skills help reduce the frequency and severity of self-harming behaviors and substance use. This facilitates better overall emotional and psychological stability.
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
MI enhances the motivation to change by resolving ambivalence. The non-confrontational, empathetic approach of MI helps clients find the internal drive to pursue recovery. This is crucial in cases where addiction is intertwined with mental health symptoms like low self-esteem or hopelessness.
Medication Management in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Medications can help stabilize chemical imbalances and prevent relapse. Continuous monitoring is essential in managing medications within dual diagnosis treatment. This process involves assessing response and side effects, adjusting the dose, and changing medication as needed.
Below are some examples of why medication management is important:
Stabilizes Mood
Various types of medications are available to treat symptoms of mental health disorders, including:
- Mood Stabilizers: Help regulate mood, such as mania and depression. Some conditions mood stabilizers are prescribed for include bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder.
- Anxiolytics: Help reduce anxiety-related symptoms, such as fear, worry, and panic attacks. Some conditions anxiolytics are prescribed for include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and specific phobia.
- Antidepressants: Help reduce depression-related symptoms, such as low mood, anxiety, and restlessness. Some conditions antidepressants are prescribed for include MDD, GAD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar depression.
- Antipsychotics: Help treat psychosis-related symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. Some conditions antipsychotics are prescribed for include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance-induced psychosis, and personality disorders.
Reduces Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms
Various FDA-approved medications are available to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) Medications
Medications for opioid use disorder include:
- Buprenorphine
- Methadone
- Naltrexone
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Medications
Medications for alcohol use disorder:
- Acamprosate
- Disulfiram
- Naltrexone
These medications work by interacting with the same neurotransmitter systems that the substance affects but in a safer and more controlled manner.
Treats Specific Dual Diagnosis Symptoms
Some medications are particularly effective in addressing the symptoms of dual diagnosis. For instance, topiramate has been shown to help individuals with PTSD and alcohol use disorder.
One study found that topiramate reduced alcohol consumption and cravings and decreased PTSD symptom severity, specifically hyperarousal symptoms.5
Complementary Holistic Therapies at Vista Taos
Vista Taos Renewal Center enriches its traditional dual diagnosis treatment with various holistic therapies. These therapies complement conventional medical and psychological treatments. They support the body’s own healing processes and promote spiritual well-being.
Some of the most common holistic therapies at our center include:
- Art therapy
- Nutritional counseling
- Recreational therapy
- Outdoor adventure therapy
Holistic practices help manage stress, reduce cravings, and improve emotional resilience. These practices are not just supplementary. Instead, they play a critical role in supporting the physical body and fostering spiritual balance.
Mindfulness Practices and Their Role in Well-being
At Vista Taos, mindfulness practices are integral to the holistic approach to dual diagnosis treatment. These practices aim to improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and enhance overall emotional resilience.
Yoga
Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. This practice can:
- Improve physical fitness
- Enhance mental focus
- Promote relaxation
A study involving 202 students found that yoga significantly reduced distress symptoms compared to a control group. Results remained true post-intervention and at follow-up.6
Research on the effects of yoga on alcohol use disorder showed notable decreases in depression scores and stress hormones.7
Meditation
Meditation involves various techniques aimed at improving awareness and attention. It encourages a state of mental calmness and stability. Mindfulness meditation or guided visualizations are the two most common techniques used.
Meditation is particularly effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. This makes it a powerful tool in treating mental health disorders and supporting recovery from substance use disorder.
The Role of Family Therapy in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Family therapy is a critical component of dual diagnosis treatment. It recognizes that addiction and mental health disorders affect not just the individual but the entire family system.
This therapeutic approach:
- Helps families understand the nature of dual diagnosis
- Improves communication skills
- Teaches strategies for managing stress and conflict
It also provides family members the tools to support their loved one’s recovery while promoting healthy boundaries that protect their emotional well-being.
The Vista Taos Family Program: Supporting Loved Ones
Our family program offers family counseling, group meetings, and seminars. It is intended to inform families about the specifics of dual diagnosis and the treatment process.
The goal is to empower families to become integral supporters rather than bystanders in the recovery journey. Resources like peer-led support groups also provide a community where families can share experiences and solutions. This fosters a network of support that extends beyond the treatment setting.
Tips to Maximize Your Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Taking the courageous step toward a dual diagnosis treatment program is a powerful decision. Here are some tips to guide you on your path to healing:
Embrace Open Communication
Honesty is key. Openly discuss your struggles with both mental health and substance use with your treatment team. This transparency allows them to tailor a program precisely to your needs.
Actively Participate in Therapy
Therapy sessions offer a safe space to explore the root causes of your condition. Actively participate by sharing your thoughts and feelings openly. Ask questions and be curious about the tools and techniques offered to manage your mental health.
Build Trust with Your Treatment Team
A strong patient-therapist relationship is vital for success. If you feel comfortable with your therapist, you’re more likely to confide openly and engage fully in treatment. Don’t hesitate to ask for a change if you don’t feel a good connection.
Embrace Medication as a Tool
Medication can be a powerful ally in managing both mental health symptoms and cravings. View it as a tool to support your recovery, not a crutch. Work with your doctor to find the right medication and dosage that works best for you.
Lean on Your Support System
Don’t isolate yourself. Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals who understand your journey. Let them know how they can best help you. Consider joining a support group for people with dual diagnoses to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Celebrate Small Victories
Recovery is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small they may seem. Acknowledge your progress and reward yourself for staying committed to your dual diagnosis treatment plan.
Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is crucial for recovery. Prioritize healthy sleep habits, eat nutritious meals, and exercise regularly. These habits will improve your overall well-being and bolster your resilience.
Be Patient with Yourself
Recovery takes time, and setbacks are normal. Don’t get discouraged if you experience a relapse. View it as a learning experience and recommit to your treatment plan. With persistence and self-compassion, you can achieve lasting change.
Focus on the Future
Imagine the life you want to create for yourself beyond treatment. Set goals and develop a plan for achieving them. Visualizing a brighter future can provide motivation and keep you focused on your recovery journey.
Start Your Path to Recovery at Vista Taos Renewal Center
If you or a loved one is ready to begin the journey toward healing and recovery, reaching out to Vista Taos Renewal Center is your first step.
Our team is available to answer any questions and provide you with the necessary information to get started.
Our Admissions Process
The admissions process at Vista Taos is designed to be as smooth and straightforward as possible. It begins with an initial assessment to discuss your specific needs and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
We will then guide you through the necessary paperwork and discuss the details of your stay. Vista Taos accepts a variety of insurance plans and also offers self-payment options.
Our staff will work with you to verify insurance benefits and ensure that you understand all your options for funding treatment, making the process less stressful and more accessible.
Begin Your Healing Journey at Vista Taos Renewal Center Today
Experience our comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment and supportive community at Vista Taos Renewal Center. Discover how we seamlessly integrate evidence-based therapies with holistic care. Our team is committed to helping you understand and overcome the challenges of dual diagnosis.
Contact us today to begin your journey to healing.
Resources
- https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt42731/2022-nsduh-main-highlights.pdf
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9955022/#B10-children-10-00293
- https://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40359-020-0393-x
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12215081/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4146719/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8114365/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5812135/
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Ready to Renew Your Life and Well-Being?
Reach out to Vista Taos Renewal Center today and let us guide you toward sustainable recovery. We will help you heal from the addictions and substance use challenges that hinder you from leading your most fulfilled life through personalized, whole-person treatment.
