Dual Diagnosis & Treatment
Our integrated approach addresses both mental illness and substance use disorder simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive care for sustainable recovery.
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Dual Diagnosis Disorder, also known as co-occurring disorders or comorbidity, refers to the simultaneous presence of a mental disorder and a substance use disorder (SUD). This condition involves two separate illnesses, each requiring its own treatment plan. It is estimated that as many as half of those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction also have a form of mental illness.
Dual Diagnosis Disorder is sometimes misunderstood by the medical community. Treating the addiction without addressing the underlying mental health condition can lead to a high relapse rate. If the two conditions are treated separately by different healthcare providers, there may be a lack of a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s overall health, complicating recovery efforts.
Signs and Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis Disorder Recognising Dual Diagnosis Disorder involves identifying the following signs and symptoms:
- Difficulty recalling a time when feeling normal without drugs or alcohol
- Using substances to cope with stress
- History of traumatic experiences
- Family history of mental illness or addiction
- Difficulty maintaining employment or academic commitments
- Anger, violence, or suicidal thoughts during attempts to quit substances
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when reducing or ceasing substance use
Our Treatment Approach
All residents follow an Individual Treatment Plan guiding their progress through three Rehabilitation Blocks: Self-System Development, Trauma Processing, and Reintegration. This personalised and holistic approach aims for sustainable reintegration at the end of a three-month stay.
The most effective treatment for Dual Diagnosis Disorder is integrated intervention, where both mental illness and substance abuse are treated concurrently. The outdated notion of treating one condition at a time is replaced by a comprehensive approach addressing both issues simultaneously.
Our multidisciplinary team, consisting of psychiatrists, occupational therapists, nurses, and facilitators, is qualified to treat a range of mental illnesses including:
- Bipolar Disorder: Difficulty managing daily tasks and maintaining relationships.
- Schizophrenia Disorder: Experiencing hallucinations or delusions detached from reality.
- Borderline Personality Disorder: Ongoing difficulty with self-regulation.
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Excessive anxiety and worry disproportionate to actual circumstances.
- Eating Disorders: Disrupted eating behaviours such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-eating Disorder.
- Depression & Mood Disorders: Persistent sadness and changes in brain chemistry.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Repetitive unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and behaviours (compulsions).
Assessment
A private clinical assessment clarifies risks, co-occurring concerns, and immediate next steps. We gather history, current symptoms, medications, and family input to match the right level of care. If admission is appropriate, we help you plan timelines and documentation so things move quickly. Learn how assessments work and what to expect on the day.
Withdrawal is managed under medical oversight to reduce risks and improve comfort. Nursing support is available 24/7, with medication protocols tailored to clinical need. Detox prepares patients for therapeutic work—sleep, nutrition, and stabilisation come first. See what to bring, typical timelines, and how we coordinate pre-authorisation.
The first 21–42 days focus on routine, safety, and daily therapy. Patients engage in individual and group sessions, psycho-education, and family contact where appropriate, supported by a multidisciplinary team. Primary care builds early momentum for change and prepares the plan for the next stage.
Secondary care deepens the work on patterns, triggers, and trauma in a calmer setting. With structured days, therapeutic groups, and coached routines, patients practise skills that hold at home. Families are updated and involved appropriately. Explore typical lengths of stay and why secondary care improves long-term outcomes.
For step-down care or when residential treatment isn’t possible, outpatient combines evening groups, one-to-one therapy, and accountability. The focus is integrating recovery into daily life—work, study, and family responsibilities—while maintaining structure and support.
Sober living provides a structured, supportive home environment with curfews, chores, coached routines, and ongoing therapy. It bridges the gap between inpatient treatment and independent living, reinforcing accountability and community while returning to work or study.
Patients learn how to spot risk early and respond fast—managing triggers, cravings, and high-risk situations. We build practical routines, communication plans, and support networks, with clear steps families can take too. See typical tools and how they’re practised before discharge.
Continuing care sustains progress after discharge: scheduled check-ins, group support, individual sessions where needed, and a plan for setbacks. We coordinate with families and community resources to keep recovery anchored in daily life.
Support for Families and Partners
Family involvement is associated with better engagement and steadier outcomes.
