Substance abuse is a rising health concern, especially cases involving opioid abuse. Matters worsen as many of the opioid addiction cases also involve underlying mental health disorders.
In that situation, the patients then need to go for special treatments. Rehabs consider these cases as those of dual diagnosis. These treatments then focus on curing both opioid addiction and mental health conditions. However, not all opioid addicts receive the right treatment. This leads to the worsening of the opioid crisis in the U.S.
What is Dual Diagnosis and its Treatment?
Dual diagnosis describes the co-existence of substance abuse and mental health conditions. Once diagnosed with co-existing disorders, it becomes important to treat them both at once. Sadly, only 8% of all addicts receive treatment for both. This clearly shows a lack of treatment in one form or another.
Such a situation then worsens the opioid crisis in the country. People struggling with opioid addiction and mental health disorders only receive treatment for their addiction. This leaves behind attended mental health conditions and an increased risk of relapse. Therefore, it is necessary to treat both disorders at once.
Reasons for Lack of Dual Diagnosis Care
Dual diagnosis treatment is not inaccessible anymore. However, researchers list the following as the reasons for the lack of care:
- Stigma
Though addiction and mental health treatment is receiving enough importance, there is still a stigma around them both. This refrains some people from receiving care and even funding in certain cases.
- Shortage of providers
Although dual diagnosis treatment is available in most parts of the country, there are still areas that do not offer it. This prevents many from going to rehab.
- Lack of coordination between care providers
Mental health issues and addiction can be treated at the same place but need different professionals. Thus, due to a lack of coordination among them, patients may suffer by not receiving the right support.
- Insufficient training
Treatment providers need to be fully trained to handle dual-diagnosis cases. However, due to their insufficient training, the care can be compromised.
- Insurance coverage
Many insurance providers might not cover the expenses of dual diagnosis treatment. This can prevent patients from opting for it.
Dual diagnosis treatment may face a shortage but it’s not impossible to get it. You can always visit Taylor Recovery, a rehab serving Dallas, Texas. Here, we offer the best care for addiction, including dual diagnosis treatment. Contact our team today to learn more!