Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Little Rock

Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance abuse disorder. This dual diagnosis is often seen when an individual struggling with a mental illness turns to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their symptoms.

According to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2014, approximately 21.5 million people in the United States had a substance use disorder, and nearly 8 million people had a co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorder. In Arkansas, 19.9% of adults over the age of 18 reported having a mental illness, and 9.1% reported having a substance use disorder.

In Little Rock, the prevalence of substance abuse and mental health disorders is also a significant concern. According to the Little Rock Police Department, drug-related arrests in the city have consistently increased over the past few years, with a total of 2,805 arrests made in 2019. In addition, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 41.1% of admissions to treatment facilities in Arkansas in 2017 involved a co-occurring disorder.

Another concern in Little Rock is the use of opioids. According to the Arkansas Department of Health, there were 144 opioid-related overdose deaths in Pulaski County, where Little Rock is located, in 2019. This number has been steadily increasing since 2015, and is reflective of the national opioid crisis.

Research has shown that individuals with co-occurring disorders have a higher risk of experiencing serious health complications, such as respiratory problems, liver disease, and heart disease, compared to those with only a substance use disorder or only a mental health disorder. It is crucial for individuals in Little Rock who are struggling with a dual diagnosis to seek treatment as soon as possible to address both their mental health and substance use issues.

Fortunately, there are treatment options available in Little Rock to help individuals with a dual diagnosis. These include inpatient and outpatient programs that offer a combination of therapy, medication management, and support groups. These programs aim to help individuals learn healthy coping mechanisms, manage their symptoms, and develop a relapse prevention plan.

In addition, the state of Arkansas has implemented initiatives to combat the opioid epidemic, including expanding access to naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. The state also has a database that tracks prescription drug use to help prevent misuse and abuse of prescription opioids.

It is important to remind individuals in Little Rock and Arkansas that addiction is a treatable condition, and recovery is possible. With the proper treatment and support, individuals with a dual diagnosis can learn to manage their mental health and substance use disorders and lead fulfilling, productive lives.