Drug and Alcohol Abuse with a Twist: New Video Series Explores Dual Diagnosis

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL, December 05, 2010 (Press-News.org) Dual Diagnosis refers to having a psychological problem (or problems) along with an addiction to drugs and alcohol. The Recovery Place's new six-part video series explores the intricacies and special challenges that Rachel and Sarah have faced because of their dual diagnosis problems. Both are in recovery now, and proud of this. However it took specialized dual diagnosis treatment to get them where they are now. These videos share Sarah and Rachel's experiences.

"Dual diagnosis," explains CEO John Cates, "is a mood, thought or personality disorder that is associated with the use of drugs and alcohol."

Both Rachel and Sarah suffered childhood traumas that later led to other psychological issues. They both began to use drugs as a way to deal with the very real physical and emotional pain they were feeling.

Clients may have more than one problem along with the drug and alcohol addiction, and it is important that they receive integrated dual diagnosis care that addresses all of the problems at the same time, not just the addiction.

Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, trauma and cutting issues are only some of the problems that can be present in addicts and alcoholics with a dual diagnosis.

The Recovery Place dual diagnosis treatment program helped Sarah and Rachel understand the underlying issues that led to their substance abuse.

"I had a very traumatic life at a very young age," shares Rachel in this new video series. "Both of my parents were addicts. I began using cocaine when I was twelve, with my mother." She has been clean for 14 months now, and feels that her success is due to the dual diagnosis inpatient and outpatient treatment that she received at The Recovery Place.

Dedicated dual diagnosis treatment involves medical and psychiatric staff availability twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. At times the symptoms of the drug or alcohol addiction may overwhelm a client, while at other times their anxiety or other psychiatric symptoms may be on the upswing. Seamless and integrated care is crucial for dual diagnosis patients.

About The Recovery Place:
The Recovery Place Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center offers comprehensive inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for their clients and families. Multidisciplinary staff include both medical and psychiatric professionals. Certified addiction specialists work with patients who are experiencing both acute and chronic dual diagnosis problems and symptoms.
Dual diagnosis treatment plans at The Recovery Place are highly individualized and client-centered.