WHAT WE DO
Dual Diagnosis and the Holistic Approach at The Bay
The critical importance of dual diagnosis is that it assists to heal the whole person, not just the addiction which is often a symptom of an underlying issue. This is in line with the The Bay Method ™, a treatment model unlike any other in the world.
A deeper level of healing
We see trauma as being at the core of many physical, mental, emotional and spiritual imbalances that our clients are experiencing. The Bay Method provides a gentle disentanglement from these wounds from the past.
Within a framework of addressing trauma first and foremost, we create a safe, supportive environment, where we combine the environment, a culture of warmth and nurturing and a philosophy that addiction can be truly healed.
This includes attending to the brain chemistry, nutrition, the medical and the psychological conditions, plus providing a friendly atmosphere and pleasing physical surroundings. We believe that, until a deeper level of healing is reached, the chance of relapse is greater because the actual root cause of the addiction has not been dealt with.
Defining Dual Diagnosis
Dual Diagnosis is used to describe a person who is experiencing both a mental health disorder and substance use problem such as alcohol and/or drug addiction. These co-occurring issues require integrated treatment for recovery to be sustainable.
Conditions occur together in around 50 percent of presentations – people who have a mental health disorder will often have a substance use disorder at some point in their lives and vice versa. The interactions of the two conditions can worsen both.
Most commonly in dual diagnosis, a substance issue, such as opiate addiction and/or alcohol dependence, will occur alongside a mental health issue such as depression or anxiety, and this in turn may actually be the result of an underlying mental health condition such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, or Clinical Depression.
Although it is not always clear which came first, the impact of the co-occurring disorders can feel overwhelming and insurmountable.
At The Bay, we provide expert support to assess, uncover and work through co-occurring disorders that are impacting mental health in a compassionate, peaceful and nurturing environment.
The Relationship Between Mental Illness and Substance Use
Substance abuse and mental illness have a complex history. Although these problems often occur together, this does not mean that one caused the other, even if one appeared first. In fact, it can be hard to identify which condition is presented first. Researchers suggest three possibilities for why they occur simultaneously.
⦁ Common risk factors including genetics, stress, and trauma may contribute to both mental disorders and substance use disorders
⦁ Mental health disorders can contribute to drug use and substance use disorders. For example, someone with a personality disorder may use drugs or alcohol to alleviate the way they feel. This is known as self-medication. Also, mental disorders may change the brain, which may predispose someone to developing an addiction
⦁ Substance use and addiction can contribute to the development of a mental health disorder as it may change the brain in ways that make a person vulnerable to developing a mental health disorder
Often a mental illness like depression, anxiety disorder or PTSD can lead to addiction. In an attempt to feel better the person self-medicates with alcohol or drugs, which then leads to dependency.
In other cases the alcohol or drug dependency is the primary condition which, over a considerable length of time, can lead to depression, anxiety and other severe mental health conditions. For example, psychosis is a common result of methamphetamine misuse.
Bipolar disorder and alcohol use disorder, sometimes called alcoholism, often occur together. It is thought that genetic traits may influence the way the brain responds to alcohol and that those with bipolar disorder may drink to ease the symptom or because their judgement is impaired by the mania that appears as part of the condition.
Unfortunately each disorder can worsen the symptoms and severity of the other.
A Personalised Treatment Plan for Dual Diagnosis
Regardless of the cause, the first step to living a balanced life is to detoxify your system of addictive substances.
At The Bay we assess your primary condition, then gently and compassionately explore any underlying causes or mental health concerns. To do this, we create an individualised treatment program that is based on personal needs and circumstances.
Upon arrival, any withdrawal symptoms will be addressed and respectfully managed during the supported detox program. A treatment team of doctors, nurses, and therapists will visit at a private residence and will be on hand to ensure a safe and comfortable detox.
As the substance leaves the body and strength returns, psychotherapy sessions can begin. This psychotherapy work takes into consideration any underlying mental health issues that may be causing or are caused by substance use.
A variety of holistic treatments, such as yoga, massage, acupuncture and meditation, are introduced as your wellbeing improves. These mindfulness modalities enhance recovery by helping to teach new ways to manage feelings of anxiety and stress and to integrate previously overwhelming emotions.
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE
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