Dual Diagnosis in Drug Rehab for the Elderly

Combined substance abuse and mental health issues can be found in 22 percent to 43 percent of older adult populations, with alcohol and depression ranking first on the list of possible combinations. Individuals who suffer from co-occurring disorders are at increased risk for poor overall health, require frequent hospitalization and outpatient assistance, and struggle more often with thoughts or attempts at suicide.

Rehab at The Canyon takes a specialized approach, combining treatment of substance use and co-occurring mental illnesses at the same time. Symptoms of one often trigger symptoms of the other and if left untreated, can further the destructive cycle and increase the chances of relapse.

The Research on Dual Diagnosis in Drug Rehab for the Elderly

Risk factors for addiction and mental health problems in the elderly are clearly identifiable:

• Genetics - where, or more specifically, who you come from
• Environment - how you live your life
• Pharmacology - side effects of medications

In actuality, however, a diagnosis can be easily missed when individuals are hesitant to mention persistent feelings of hopelessness, melancholy, grief, or boredom. If an accurate diagnosis can be achieved, talk therapy has been proven effective in reducing the severity of depression, providing for a happy, rewarding life.

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Recognize the Need for Dual Diagnosis Drug Rehab for the Elderly

Depression is not a normal sign of aging -- it is a sign of an undiagnosed or untreated illness that requires medical attention. Here's what to watch out for:

• Loss of interest in pleasurable activities - the excuse of "I'm too old" can be used far too easily in an attempt to rationalize feeling dull and monotonous
• Pervasive feelings of emptiness, sadness, or despair - commonly characterized by "what's the use" or "nobody cares anymore" attitudes
• Nervousness, anxiety - reluctance to take part in activities or responsibilities
• Changes in appetite and weight (loss or gain)
• Sleep disturbances (too much or not enough)

Additionally, signs and symptoms of drug or alcohol problems can include:

• Confusion, impaired or lost memory
• Hiding, lying, making excuses, or denying actions related to substance abuse
• Dizziness, trouble walking or grasping objects, frequent falls or accidents
• Neglecting cleanliness, personal hygiene, household obligations

At times, symptoms may seem very similar. It can be extremely difficult to pinpoint whether certain behaviors are caused by the addiction, or emotional disturbances. Therapists and psychiatrists experienced with the complexities of dual diagnosis are the best option for individuals suffering from a range of dysfunctional behavior.

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Topics of Conversation: Older Adults and Their Need for Dual Diagnosis Drug Rehab

The most things to remember when talking to your friends or loved ones about co-occurring mental health issues are:

• Depression, anxiety, and panic attacks are far more common than most people realize.
• Feeling this way is not your fault, but there are things you can do to help yourself get better.
• Treatment does work, and the sooner you get started, the sooner you'll start to feel like yourself again.

All too often, denial is a common response to the stigma and pressure related to dual diagnosis. Feeling overwhelmed, manipulated, or cheated are all possible reasons clients choose not to believe in the existence of multiple psychological disorders.

Just as physical ailments can occur simultaneously in an individual, mental and emotional problems can come to pass in much the same way. Sometimes they are independent of one another, but most often they are interrelated as manifestations of the same illness.

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Dual Diagnosis Drug Rehab for the Elderly at The Canyon

Early intervention that combines appropriate medication with psychotherapies significantly reduces the desire for drugs or alcohol. Learning to manage your symptoms before they get out of control is what rehab is all about. Commitment and persistence are the keys to lasting sobriety - but knowing how to ask for help is the first step.

The Canyon makes it easy to get started on the path to reclaiming your life. Just pick up the phone for an immediate consultation with our qualified admissions counselors. The rest of your life is waiting, so give us a call today to enjoy every minute of it.

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