For many people, addiction, and substance abuse don’t begin in a vacuum. There are often other issues at play, such as anxiety or depression, that can cause a person to rely on substances. When a person who is experiencing multiple disorders goes for treatment, it can be a complex process to sort out the various issues involved. This is where Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment, known as IDDT therapy, can be vital for successful recovery.
What is IDDT?
Integrated dual disorder treatment (IDDT) is an approach that simultaneously addresses both mental health disorders and substance use disorders in individuals. This is done by combining the care provided by mental health services with those of substance abuse treatment centers. In this way, IDDT can help a person overcome multiple disorders, without the need to treat them individually one after the other.
The Need And Effectiveness Of Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment
According to a report from the National Institute of Mental Health, close to 1 in 5 adults in the U.S have disabilities relating to:
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Other behavioral disorders
Often, people will experience more than one of these mental health issues at the same time. In fact, studies have shown that over 50% of people who have been diagnosed with severe mental illness will also be diagnosed with a substance use disorder at some point over their lifetime, with a high chance of the two disorders overlapping.
Research shows that people with dual disorders have a higher risk of hospitalization and other difficulties, including psychiatric episodes and violence.
As more research is being done, more experts, including SAMHSA, are saying that integrated treatment for dual disorders is proving to be more effective than parallel treatment.
IDDT Components
The Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment plan consists of several fundamental principles, including:
- Concurrent treatment - As the name suggests, IDDT is all about seeing the whole picture by treating the various mental health challenges concurrently. For example, a clinician would conduct separate screening questions for addiction and other mental health issues, but all within the same session.
- Specialized training - Staff members need to be well trained in areas of addiction and substance abuse, as well as psychological disorders.
- Staging intervention - The integrated dual disorder treatment approach calls for an individualized plan for each client. This allows individuals to take steps in their treatment plan depending on their readiness level.
- Group/ family therapy - Creating a support system for the individual in treatment is highly encouraged for continued success in recovery.
- Pharmacological treatment - There can be a need for medication, which is always closely monitored by clinicians.
The Benefits of IDDT
Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment (IDDT) offers benefits by addressing both mental health and substance use disorders simultaneously, leading to improved outcomes in various aspects of life. Research on the effectiveness of IDDT reveals that integrated treatment approaches significantly improve various aspects of individuals' lives, including:
- Substance Use Levels: Integrated dual disorder treatment reduces substance abuse, promoting healthier, more stable habits.
- Psychiatric Well-being: Helps alleviate mental health symptoms, leading to better emotional stability.
- Living Conditions: Improves housing situations, offering better support for those at risk of homelessness.
- Hospitalization Rates: Integrated dual diagnosis treatment lowers the frequency of hospital admissions related to mental health or addiction crises.
- Legal Issues: Decreases legal troubles often linked to substance use or psychiatric challenges.
- Daily Functioning: IDDT enhances individuals’ ability to perform everyday tasks and responsibilities.
- Quality of Life: Leads to a more fulfilling and stable life, improving overall well-being.
Development of IDDT
The Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment (IDDT) model was created by researchers at the Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center, part of Dartmouth Medical School in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Spearheaded by experts such as Dr. Robert E. Drake and Dr. Kim T. Mueser, this evidence-based practice continues to evolve through ongoing research and refinement. The Dartmouth team has led national efforts to implement IDDT in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Key contributors to its advancement include the State of Ohio and the Center for Evidence-Based Practices at Case Western Reserve University, which works through the Ohio SAMI Coordinating Center of Excellence (CCOE) to expand and improve the integrated dual diagnosis treatment model’s reach and effectiveness.
Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment at Avenues Recovery
Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment (IDDT) is increasingly gaining recognition as a highly effective approach in the mental health field, offering a comprehensive and integrated model for achieving lasting recovery. By addressing both addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders simultaneously, IDDT provides individuals with the tools and support needed to rebuild their lives and maintain long-term wellness.
If you or your loved one is facing the challenges of addiction alongside mental health struggles, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Avenues Recovery today to learn how IDDT can be the key to a brighter, healthier future for you or your loved one. Your journey to recovery starts here—take the first step now!