Many psychiatrists attempt to offer dual diagnosis services out of their offices for people who have a mental illness and alcoholism or drug addiction. Unfortunately, this is ineffective the vast majority of the time. Psychiatrists usually have good intentions.

They may be trying to help people who can’t easily afford comprehensive addiction treatment or are not able to take time off from work to attend rehab.However, it’s simply a fact that more intense help is almost always needed for someone to learn how to deal with a dual diagnosis. One of the reasons for this is that addicts need medical detox. It is an essential first step in overcoming addiction. This is the process of ridding the body of toxins left over from drug and alcohol abuse. It is more effective and safer when performed under constant medical supervision.

Psychiatrists are unable to provide adequate support with a weekly appointment. Dual diagnosis patients need to be monitored and held accountable for taking their medication. It’s also much easier to succumb to cravings for drugs and alcohol with a less intense form of addiction help. Finally, the mental illness and substance addiction need to be treated at the same time for the best results. A psychiatrist is rarely trained sufficiently in both types of conditions to be able to do this.

The best method of treatment for dual diagnosis disorders is a rehab facility that specializes in it. Dual diagnosis patients almost always need residential rehab for the reasons mentioned above. This method will allow them the opportunity to get support from multiple professionals, as well as other patients in the same situation. Living in a new environment for a while reduces the chances of relapse and makes it easier for an addict to learn the skills necessary for changing their lifestyle.