Aftercare

Most treatment programs recommend that their graduating patients seek or at least plan some sort of aftercare in order to secure their newfound sobriety. In the case of dual diagnosis patients it is imperative that they seek aftercare because the maintenance of the delicate mental and emotional balance makes the difference between recovery and insanity.

There are many different routes for aftercare for the dual diagnosis patient. Many patients continue to seek a psychologist, for therapeutic reasons, as well as a psychiatrist, for medicinal needs. The psychiatrist works with dual diagnosis patients in private, but generally asks that patient notify him/her of any relapses or thoughts of relapses. This is necessary because mixing psychiatric drugs with other drugs can be very dangerous and in some cases permanently harm the patient.

Dual diagnosis patients may also find the use of 12-step meetings specifically dealing with dual diagnosis helpful and inviting. These meetings are groups of people trying to recover and live with mental illness and addiction. During these meetings people share their experiences around mental illness and addiction and offer hope to people that think they will never get better.

Some dual diagnosis patients feel better transitioning from treatment into a sober living environment or halfway house because there is more structure and support. The use of these facilities is very rewarding and can strengthen a person’s commitment to recovery. Gulf Coast Recovery has an Dual Diagnosis aftercare program that helps these patients learn how to live comfortably with these illnesses. If you or someone you care about needs help with dual diagnosis, find out more by contacting Gulf Coast today. Recovery is only a phone call away.