Beginning Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
The Steps After the Assessment for Dual-Diagnosis
(Mentally Ill and Chemically Abusing)
Usually after the original diagnosis, there is an individual appointment with the client to engage them in treatment. At this time a specific plan is set up using assessment information, as a guideline for the client. This is called the treatment plan. It places a person in a group or is done shortly after group placement.
Remember, when beginning dual-diagnosis treatment, getting involved with groups and a counselor are very important.
In a chemically dependent person only the first goals of the plan are usually the same.
(1) Abstain from all mind altering chemicals.
(2) Attend two sober support groups weekly.
(3) Relapse Prevention.
(4) Individual goals depending on the client's present needs.
This plan should be specific with measurable results to show progress. It must be reviewed and updated as the client attends group. Individual sessions are used for updating and other topics the client feels are too private for a group setting. A list of client's needs and assets are listed and made part of this plan.
In a mental health setting the plan may be more concrete with tighter, more definable goals. A list of objectives is made and progress monitored. Such as mental health medication taken daily, attendance at mental health counseling weekly and attendance at sober support twice a week, etc. As goals are met expectations are added, such as obtaining a sponsor under sober support. Eating a balanced meal when taking medication.
Discussing and planning a daily schedule with a mental health counselor to include a balance of physical, spiritual, mental and emotional support are also necessary. At the conclusion of planning a completion time-frame is drafted. Example: Make or buy a calendar and list all your appointments for the week on it by Monday. Check them off as you do it.
This type of planning is typically how both addiction rehabilitation and Dual-diagnosis are conducted. As a person completes one section of the treatment their level of treatment decreases. The first stage is known as intensive. The second phase deals with more specified areas like overcoming anger, relapse prevention, and attending groups such as victims of domestic violence.
The first stage usually includes up to three days a week of planning, groups and related commitments, while the second phase cuts commitment to two or even one day a week. Graduation is based on the addiction treatment plan and depends on successfully completing the recovery plan, while mental health recovery is an ongoing process.
Treatment for chemical dependency is usually up to a year and then sober support system is designed to be followed for the rest of the client's life as a relapse prevention measure.
