Alcoholism and depression often go hand-in-hand. However, it’s difficult to determine which came first. Is the person depressed because of the drinking, or drinking because of the depression? Regardless, the combination is overwhelming for the individual and he or she can reach a point of having suicidal thoughts.
Fortunately, treatment is available for individuals who are struggling with alcoholism and depression. Dual-diagnosis care is the best option for anyone with a combination of conditions that include addiction to a substance and a physical or emotional illness as well.
Potential Dangers of Alcoholism and Depression
It is well documented that depression alone can cause a person to take their own life. Furthermore, studies show that when depression is accompanied by drug or alcohol addiction, the symptoms of depression are worsened.
When depression is exacerbated by alcoholism or vice versa, the affected person is not the only one in danger. In most cases, friends and family members are victims of the negative behavior of the addicted person. Domestic violence and child abuse or neglect occur as a result of the potentially deadly combination of addiction and depression.
For the above reasons, individuals who are suffering from alcoholism and depression should seek professional treatment in a facility that has expertise in treating dual-diagnosis patients.
Why is Dual-Diagnosis Treatment Recommended?
Unfortunately, there is no simple cure for depression any more than there is a cure for alcoholism. However, both conditions are treatable. Of course, it requires a great deal of patience, support, and determination. Dual-diagnosis treatment in an inpatient facility provides the support, guidance, and expertise to help a person address both aspects of their condition simultaneously. In this way, the chance of relapse is greatly reduced.
In a dual-diagnosis treatment program, patients attend regularly scheduled classes and activities that restore self-esteem, build confidence, and instill a set of ethics and coping skills to help the person maintain sobriety while also keeping a positive attitude toward life.
A dual-diagnosis program addresses alcoholism and depression simultaneously through a comprehensive curriculum that includes, but is not limited to the following:
- Group and individual counseling
- Life skills training
- Music and art therapy
- Exercise and fitness routines
- Nutritional guidance
- Relaxation techniques, massage, acupuncture, yoga, sauna
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Faith-based therapy (optional)
- Aftercare services
Dual-diagnosis seeks to heal the person mentally, physically, and spiritually for lasting results.
It is important to remember that detox alone does not cure alcoholism. This is especially true when the person also suffers depression. Detox addresses the physical aspect of the condition, however, it does nothing for the mental aspect of the addiction.
During inpatient rehab, daily counseling sessions help the person understand the root causes of their addiction and depression. Furthermore, the program offers role-playing activities and other group interactions to help patients learn how to relate to others while in a sober state of mind. These skills are essential for a recovering addict when he or she attempts to reclaim their place in society.
Learn more about treatment for alcoholism and depression today. Call our toll-free number to speak with one of our knowledgeable representatives and get started on your path to recovery.
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