When it gets down to the nitty-gritty, what is the most common dual diagnosis for young men? The answer might surprise you. It’s not what you’d think. The team at Red Oak Recovery® has seen firsthand the devastating effects that this combination can have on a young man’s life.
But the good news is that treatment and recovery are possible. With the right help, young men can learn to cope with dual diagnosis treatment and go on to lead happy and healthy lives. Call 828.382.9699 today and learn more.
Understanding Dual Diagnosis
If you’ve heard of dual diagnosis, you may already know that it is the term used to describe when someone is diagnosed with both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. But did you know that this is a common issue among young men in particular?
The first step to understanding dual diagnosis is to look at the two main components: mental health disorder and substance use disorder. Mental health disorders can range from depression to anxiety to PTSD, and oftentimes, young men are more likely to suffer from these types of disorders due to the pressures of life. On the other hand, substance use disorders often stem from self-medicating in order to cope with these mental health issues. This can range from using alcohol or drugs to numb the pain of a mental health disorder to using substances as a way to gain acceptance from peers.
Once both components of dual diagnosis are present, the individual is likely to suffer from a variety of symptoms that can have a significant impact on their daily life. These can include difficulty concentrating, feeling disconnected from reality, difficulty maintaining relationships, and increased irritability or mood swings. In addition, they may also experience changes in their behavior, such as impulsivity or risky behaviors.
A Common Dual Diagnosis For Young Men
One of the common dual diagnoses that young men experience is depression and anxiety disorders with alcohol/drug abuse. This is often due to the fact that young men are under a lot of pressure to succeed. They may feel like they have to live up to the expectations of their family, friends, or society in general. As a result, they may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with the pressure they’re feeling.
This dual diagnosis can be extremely damaging to a young man’s life. Not only can it lead to addiction and potentially fatal consequences, but it can also impact their mental and emotional health, as well as their relationships.
When two disorders are present, it’s important to treat both at the same time. Treating just one disorder while leaving the other untreated can lead to a relapse. It can also make the symptoms of both disorders worse.
The Importance of Dual Diagnosis Treatment
So what can be done to help young men with dual diagnosis? The first step is to seek professional help. Our mental health and addiction specialists at Red Oak Recovery® will be able to diagnose the individual and create a treatment plan that is tailored to their unique needs.
It is also important for young men to have a support system of family and friends who can provide emotional and practical support during this difficult time. That is why our family therapy program is such an integral part of our dual diagnosis treatment approach.
Dual diagnosis is a serious issue that can have a significant impact on the lives of young men. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms and seek help as soon as possible. With proper treatment and support, young men can learn to manage their mental health and substance use disorders and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Learn More About Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Red Oak Recovery®
If you suspect that you or someone you know may be suffering from a dual diagnosis, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Call us at 828.382.9699 or fill out our online contact form to learn how.
