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The link between mental illness and drug or alcohol addiction is hard to deny. Those who suffer from a mental health disorder may turn to substance abuse to escape the negative side effects that mental illness presents. Conversely, substance abuse can often cause isolation, fractured relationships,

Paul Alexander CATC, JD
Clinical Editorial Team
The link between mental illness and drug or alcohol addiction is hard to deny. Those who suffer from a mental health disorder may turn to substance abuse to escape the negative side effects that mental illness presents. Conversely, substance abuse can often cause isolation, fractured relationships,
The link between mental illness and drug or alcohol addiction is hard to deny. Those who suffer from a mental health disorder may turn to substance abuse to escape the negative side effects that mental illness presents. Conversely, substance abuse can often cause isolation, fractured relationships, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to an increase in mental health issues.
Dual diagnosis treatment provides effective treatment for those suffering from mental health challenges in conjunction with addiction. Oftentimes, an effective dual diagnosis treatment program is the key to helping those who are struggling to get the help they need for sustainable sobriety and a healthy body and mind.
Dual diagnosis treatment addresses mental health concerns in conjunction with substance abuse for well-rounded programs that get to the root of the addiction. Research has shown that those who suffer from co-occurring disorders benefit from programs that integrate mental health care into substance abuse treatment. It is well accepted that this method of treatment is the most effective way to make a successful and long-term recovery.
Many individuals know right away that their mental health and addiction go hand in hand. Others learn later on from work with a therapist or addiction specialist that a dual diagnosis treatment program is the best fit for their needs. Consider the following factors when determining if dual diagnosis treatment is right for you, but remember that a healthcare professional will be able to help you make the decision about what type of program is right for you.
Consider dual diagnosis treatment if you:
Making the decision to pursue dual diagnosis treatment is a positive step towards healthier relationships and a brighter tomorrow. When choosing a treatment center in Orange County, it is important to feel confident in the services they offer. We encourage you to ensure that the treatment center you are considering provides the following:
Ask for specifics as to how the treatment center incorporates mental health care into their addiction treatment, and how these decisions impact patients. What happens if one method of treatment does not work for an individual? Is the team composed of addiction specialists as well as mental health experts?
Addiction and mental illnesses affect every individual differently! Because of that, it is important to ensure that your dual diagnosis program will be catered to the type of mental health issues and substances you struggle with.
Addiction and mental illness require consistent work and maintenance. Therefore, it is important that your treatment program provides aftercare programs to keep you integrated into the recovery community, and equipped with resources, even when your treatment program has come to a close.
Mental health disorders can have a devastating impact on addiction treatment if left untreated. If you or a loved one is struggling with co-occurring disorders, ensure that you choose a treatment center that meets your needs and provides the support and services necessary to pursue a full recovery.
If you have additional questions about what to look for in addiction treatment centers in Orange County, or aspects of effective treatment, reach out to us at Northbound Treatment Center at any time. Helping you get the support you need is our top priority. Reach out today.
About the Author

President, CEO & Founder at Northbound Treatment Network Paul Alexander is the CEO, President & Founder of Northbound Treatment Network in Newport Beach, California. He believes wholeheartedly in transformational leadership, organizational health and effective, fully integrated substance use disorder and mental health treatment. With over 27 years of experience in behavioral healthcare, Paul has extensive knowledge of “in vivo” treatment modalities, clinical development, operations, strategy, marketing and financial planning. He has been widely recognized for his development of collegiate-based residential treatment programs for students in recovery and authored a research study at The University of California confirming this modality’s effectiveness. Paul’s comprehensive professional experience, willingness to innovate, and emphasis on organizational health are vital factors in Northbound’s continued success. Paul received his Certified Addiction Treatment Specialist training at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, CA, and was awarded Outstanding Alumni Service Award in 2002. Paul holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, Law and Society, Summa Cum Laude, from University of California, Irvine, and a Juris Doctorate degree from Loyola Law School of Los Angeles. Paul currently serves on The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) board. In addition, he serves on The Family Recovery Foundation board and The CarePossible board in Orange County; both organizations are committed to raising funds for family recovery and treatment for former military personnel. Paul is in recovery himself and lives in Orange County with his wife Silvana and his two young sons, Noah and Dean.
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