In the United States, nearly 20% of Americans live with a mental illness. However, less than half of those individuals receive treatment for their illnesses. A mental health diagnosis can adversely affect a person’s work, school, family, and social life, as well as put them at higher risk for developing a substance addiction. Without comprehensive mental health treatment from a dual diagnosis program, those living with mental illnesses may struggle to overcome addiction and live fulfilling lives.

What Is Mental Illness?

woman in therapy services in mental health treatment new bridge foundationMental illness refers to a family of disorders that relate to the way a person experiences thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. For many people, mental illness can be difficult to detect or treat because it is invisible. A loved one may also have a mental health diagnosis without anyone even realizing it. For those receiving help at a chemical dependency treatment facility, mental illness can become manageable. Without it, mental illness can hinder a person’s day-to-day life and make addiction recovery more difficult.

There are many types of mental illnesses that a person can suffer from. It is also common for a person to suffer from multiple mental health disorders, which makes the need for mental health treatment even more imperative. The most common types of mental illness that also co-exist with a substance use disorder include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Schizophrenia

Mental Health and Addiction

Mental illnesses also put individuals at a higher risk for developing substance addictions. This happens because those who do not receive comprehensive mental health treatment may begin self-medicating to quell adverse symptoms. For example, a person with social anxiety may drink in order to feel less anxious in social situations. When a person with an addiction enters mental health treatment at a chemical dependency treatment facility, they can participate in dual diagnosis services to help them address both problems at once.

If a person with addiction does not receive treatment for underlying mental illnesses, then they are at a higher risk for relapse as the symptoms of a mental health disorder can trigger substance use. Addressing both issues simultaneously is essential for lasting recovery.

Therapies for Mental Health

Every person’s struggle with mental illness is unique, so medical professionals developed many types of mental health treatment programs to address individual needs. A therapy that may work for one person many not work for another, so it is important for individuals to try a variety of services to see which one suits them best. Types of mental health treatment services available in a dual diagnosis program typically include:

  • Individual counseling
  • Specialized group counseling
  • Family counseling
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Assistance with medication management
  • Consultation with outside mental health providers

Finding Mental Health Treatment in California

New Bridge Foundation® in Berkeley, California is a comprehensive addiction and dual diagnosis treatment center in California. Our compassionate staff is ready to help individuals from all backgrounds take their first steps to living happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Some of our programs for addiction treatment include:

To learn more about New Bridge Foundation® and how we can also help with managing mental illnesses and addiction, call us today at 866-772-8491. Our addiction and mental health treatment experts are ready to work with clients on their paths to recovery.