Heal From Dual Diagnosis in
Los Angeles, California

Learn about how Skyline Recovery Center, a leader among mental health and addiction treatment centers, uses a holistic approach to tackle dual diagnosis.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

The Role of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers

Mental health and addiction are not isolated issues. They can often become deeply intertwined, creating a complex web of challenges for people struggling with both.

For instance, someone battling depression might turn to alcohol to self-medicate, while someone with an addiction might experience anxiety as a withdrawal symptom. This is why comprehensive mental health and addiction treatment centers are crucial.

Empowering Clients Through Integrated Recovery

Skyline Recovery Center (SRC) is a beacon of hope for those grappling with both mental health disorders and addiction. Our holistic approach integrates a range of therapeutic modalities to meet each client’s needs.

SRC provides a comprehensive pathway to recovery by combining physical, emotional, and spiritual healing practices. This integrated approach delves into the root causes of both mental health and addiction issues. In this way, we empower clients to reclaim their lives and achieve lasting wellness.

Underscoring the Need for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers

In 2022, co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (SUD) affected 21.5 million adults. This highlights the need for effective mental health and addiction treatment centers.1

Over 50% of adults with severe mental illness experience co-occurring disorders. This underscores the fact that the two conditions can significantly influence each other.2

Dual diagnosis particularly impacts the 18-25 and 26-49 age groups. It is estimated that 15.1% of people in the first group and 11.4% of people in the second group suffer from co-occurring disorders. The data illustrate the substantial burden faced by people during some of their most productive years.3

At Skyline Recovery Center, we’re committed to challenging those statistics. We’re here to provide the support needed for a healthier community — one individual at a time.

Understanding the Intersection of Mental Health and Addiction

Dual diagnosis is the co-occurrence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder within the same person.

This intricate relationship can manifest in several ways, including:

Self-Medication

People with mental health disorders might turn to substances in an attempt to cope with their symptoms. For instance, those struggling with depression or anxiety may use drugs or alcohol to cope. This self-medication can ultimately worsen mental health and lead to dependence.
According to a recent report, 21.8% of hospitalizations and 12.2% of emergency room visits were linked to opioid use disorders among people with co-occurring disorders in 2016.4

Neurochemical Imbalances

Both mental health conditions and substance use can disrupt brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin.
These chemicals are involved in:
  • Mood regulation
  • Reward processing
  • Stress response
These neurobiological changes can create a feedback loop where mental health issues and substance use disorders reinforce each other. This makes recovery more challenging.

Exploring the Relationship Between SUD and Mental Health

The biopsychosocial model explains the intricate relationship between mental health and addiction. It offers a holistic framework by considering the interplay of the following three key factors:

Biological Factors

Genetic research has shown that some people are at a higher risk of developing co-occurring conditions due to inherited vulnerabilities. These genetic vulnerabilities can influence brain chemistry and increase the risk of developing either condition.5

Psychological Factors

Psychological factors that contribute to the development of dual diagnosis include:
  • Emotional regulation difficulties
  • Cognitive distortions
  • Past trauma
Some mental health disorders can affect cognitive function. They can impact a person’s ability to make healthy decisions and resist cravings. This can make it more difficult to overcome addiction and maintain recovery.

Social Factors

Social factors include the environmental and relational contexts influencing a person’s life. Some of the most common among them are:
  • Socioeconomic status
  • Family dynamics
  • Peer influence
  • Cultural norms 

Adverse Social Environments

Adverse social environments increase the risk of both mental health disorders and substance use. These factors include:
  • Poverty
  • Unemployment
  • Unstable housing
  • Lack of social support

Importance of Positive Social Support

Conversely, positive social support systems can play a vital role in recovery. These support systems include:
  • Supportive family members
  • Friends
  • Community resources

Treatment Implications Within Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers

The complex interplay between mental health and addiction creates a significant challenge. Treating one condition in isolation often proves ineffective, as the untreated condition can worsen the other. This highlights the need for an integrated approach that addresses both aspects of the issue.
The integrated care approach utilized by mental health and addiction treatment centers such as SRC provide several benefits, including:

Holistic Treatment

Integrated care provides a comprehensive approach to recovery. It does so by addressing both conditions at the same time. This allows therapy and support to target the root causes of both mental health struggles and substance misuse.

Improved Outcomes

Integrated care leads to better treatment outcomes for people with dual diagnosis. This may include:
  • Increased rates of recovery
  • Reduced substance use
  • Improved mental well-being
In a meta-analysis, 45.5% of studies showed that integrated treatment reduced PTSD symptoms significantly more effectively for patients with dual diagnosis. The same treatment approach reduced anxiety and depression symptoms better during dual diagnosis treatment.6

Reduced Relapse Risk

Integrated care can help develop healthier coping mechanisms. It addresses the underlying factors that contribute to both mental health and addiction. This can significantly reduce the risk of relapse after treatment.

The Skyline Model: Integrated Care for Holistic Healing

At SRC, we understand that the path to recovery from dual diagnosis is rarely linear. This is why we focus on providing integrated care that recognizes the interconnectedness of mental health and addiction. Below are some key aspects of our holistic approach to dual diagnosis treatment:

Comprehensive Assessment

At SRC, our integrated care program starts with a comprehensive assessment conducted by a team of qualified professionals. The in-depth analysis helps us gain a holistic understanding of the client’s needs, goals, and experiences.
This evaluation often includes:

Clinical Interviews

In-depth interviews with a psychiatrist allow for a detailed exploration of a person’s:
  • Mental health history
  • Current symptoms
  • Substance use patterns

Psychological Testing

Standardized psychological assessments are an important part of our assessment process. These can provide valuable insights into a client’s:
  • Cognitive functioning
  • Emotional state
  • Personality traits

Medical Evaluation

A thorough medical evaluation ensures any co-occurring medical conditions are identified and addressed as part of the treatment plan.

Social History Assessment

Exploring a person’s social environment, support systems, and potential stressors sheds light on external factors that may contribute to the challenges. This analysis helps us understand the context in which addiction and mental health struggles manifest.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment Plans in SRC’s Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers

A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work when addressing co-occurring disorders. SRC’s dual diagnosis treatment plans are customized to meet each client’s unique needs.
These plans often incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities, including:

Individual Therapy

Tailored therapy sessions address the specific mental health concerns identified in the assessment. We utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities in one-on-one therapy to achieve desired outcomes. The aim is to help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms and manage negative thoughts.

Group Therapy

Peer interaction can be a powerful motivator for people recovering from dual diagnosis. Group therapy provides a safe space for people to connect with others who share similar challenges. This can foster a sense of support and belonging.

Medication Management

When necessary, medication management can be a critical component of the treatment plan. Medications can help:
  • Stabilize mood swings
  • Manage anxiety symptoms
  • Address co-occurring mental health disorders

Therapies Utilized Within Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers

At SRC, we skillfully weave evidence-based practices with holistic modalities. This helps us create a comprehensive treatment program that addresses the multifaceted nature of dual diagnosis.
Evidence-based therapies provide a strong foundation for cognitive and emotional change, while holistic modalities nurture overall well-being. This synergy empowers clients to not only overcome addiction but also cultivate a life filled with purpose, emotional balance, and a sense of well-being.
Some of the most common therapeutic practices that we utilize include:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a cornerstone of evidence-based treatment for both mental health disorders and addiction. Through CBT, clients learn to:

Challenge Negative Thinking

CBT teaches people to identify and challenge distorted thinking patterns that can fuel:
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Cravings

Develop Coping Skills

CBT equips clients with practical strategies to manage:
  • Stress
  • Difficult emotions
  • Triggers for substance use

Improve Communication Skills

Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help people communicate more effectively with loved ones and healthcare providers. This fosters stronger support systems. In this way, CBT fosters a healthier and more balanced approach to life.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavioral therapy is particularly helpful for people struggling with:
  • Intense emotions
  • Borderline personality disorder
  • Self-destructive behaviors

Skills Taught in DBT

DBT teaches people a set of core skills to manage their emotions and tolerate distress in a healthy way.
These skills include:
  1. Mindfulness: Dialectical behavioral therapy emphasizes present-moment awareness. This allows clients to observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment.
  2.  Distress tolerance: This skill set equips people with techniques to manage overwhelming emotions in healthy ways. It helps reduce the urge to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.
  3. Emotional regulation: DBT teaches people to identify their emotions and develop strategies to regulate them effectively.
  4. Interpersonal effectiveness: Dialectical behavioral therapy strengthens communication and relationship-building abilities. This fosters stronger support systems for recovery.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Addiction is often aggravated by trauma. EMDR is a highly effective and non-invasive treatment for people struggling with trauma-related mental health disorders. The therapy uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements) while guiding clients through the processing of traumatic memories.
This can help them:
  • Reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories
  • Develop healthier coping mechanisms
  • Improve self-awareness
By addressing the root causes of trauma-related mental health challenges, EMDR can empower clients to move forward from their past. It helps build a healthier present and future, reducing the risk of relapse.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy during dual diagnosis treatment delves into the unconscious mind. The aim is to explore how past experiences and relationships might be influencing present thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
This type of therapy may help clients:
  • Gain insight into the root causes of mental health challenges and addiction
  • Replace unhealthy coping mechanisms with healthier alternatives
  • Understand how their past experiences may be impacting their present relationships

Holistic Modalities

Beyond traditional talk therapy in mental health and addiction treatment centers, we incorporate holistic modalities that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
Some of the most common among them include:

Meditation

This practice cultivates mindfulness and emotional regulation, promoting inner peace and reducing stress. Meditation can be a powerful tool for managing cravings and fostering self-awareness.

Sound Bath

Immersion in sound waves can induce deep relaxation and promote emotional well-being. Sound baths can be a calming and grounding experience. They can help clients manage anxiety and improve sleep.

Recreational Therapy

Recreational therapy can include art therapy, music therapy, or outdoor activities, all contributing to a holistic approach to healing.
Engaging in enjoyable activities can:
  • Reduce stress
  • Foster a sense of purpose
  • Promote social interaction
Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers

The Sky’s the Limit With SRC

Integrated mental health and addiction treatment centers offer a critical and often overlooked solution for people struggling with co-occurring disorders. Traditionally, mental health and addiction are treated in isolation without much success.

Skyline Recovery Center acknowledges the complexity of dual diagnosis and employs a holistic approach to treatment. Our dual diagnosis program exemplifies the benefits of integrated care.

We empower our clients to address the root causes of co-occurring disorders by focusing on:
  • Comprehensive assessments
  • Individualized treatment plans
  • Combination of evidence-based and holistic modalities

Contact Skyline Recovery Center Today

Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance if you or someone you know is struggling with co-occurring disorders. Our compassionate admission teams are available to answer any questions you may have about receiving care at mental health and addiction treatment centers.

Call us today at 310-686-9689 to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and take the first step toward healing.