Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Toms River

Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, refers to a condition where an individual has both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. This combination of conditions can create a complex and challenging situation for individuals seeking treatment. Toms River, located in Ocean County, New Jersey, is no stranger to the issue of dual diagnosis. In this research, we will explore the prevalence of dual diagnosis in Toms River and New Jersey, as well as the efforts being made to address this issue.

Prevalence of Dual Diagnosis in Toms River and New Jersey

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of individuals seeking treatment for co-occurring disorders in Toms River and New Jersey. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2017, there were 2.3 million adults in the United States with a serious mental illness and a co-occurring substance use disorder, with New Jersey having one of the highest rates of co-occurring disorders in the country.

In Toms River, a 2014 study by the Toms River Drug Alliance found that 47% of individuals seeking treatment for substance abuse also had a co-occurring mental health disorder. This high rate of co-occurring disorders can be attributed to the fact that Toms River is located in Ocean County, which has the fourth-highest rate of opioid overdose deaths in New Jersey.

Common Dual Diagnosis Disorders and Facts

Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are the most common mental health disorders seen in individuals with a substance use disorder in Toms River. With the opioid epidemic taking hold in New Jersey, many individuals with a dual diagnosis may also struggle with opioid use disorder. This can be attributed to the easy access to prescription painkillers and the widespread availability of illicit drugs in the area.

Additionally, individuals with dual diagnosis in Toms River are more likely to experience homelessness, unemployment, and involvement with the criminal justice system. This can compound the challenges faced in seeking and maintaining treatment for these individuals.

Treatment for Dual Diagnosis in Toms River

The good news is that dual diagnosis is treatable. The first step to treatment is recognizing the issue and seeking help from qualified professionals. In Toms River, there are several treatment options for individuals with co-occurring disorders.

One option is to seek treatment at a specialized dual diagnosis treatment center, where individuals can receive integrated treatment for both their mental health disorder and substance use disorder. Another option is to seek treatment from a mental health professional who specializes in dual diagnosis.

Toms River also offers support groups, such as Dual Recovery Anonymous, which provide a supportive community for individuals with co-occurring disorders to share their experiences and receive support from others who understand their struggles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dual diagnosis is a significant issue in Toms River and New Jersey, with a high prevalence of co-occurring disorders. However, it is important to remember that with proper treatment and support, individuals with dual diagnosis can recover and lead fulfilling lives. By raising awareness about this issue and providing access to effective treatment, we can help those in Toms River and New Jersey overcome the challenges of dual diagnosis.