Dual diagnosis is a term used to refer to situations in which a person suffers from both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental health disorder. It’s very common for co-occurring conditions to happen, often one fueling the other. Treatment for both conditions must happen at the same time for it to be effective.
One of the types of dual diagnosis our team at Iron Bridge Recovery Center treats is the use of drugs while suffering from an eating disorder. If you are facing this dual combination of life-changing circumstances, our team can offer guidance and support to you. We offer personalized treatment designed to help you.
What Is an Eating Disorder?
An eating disorder is a condition, such as binge-eating, anorexia, or bulimia, in which a person’s actions are not fueled by hunger or the need to meet nutritional intake. Rather, it is a mental health disorder that is defined by some type of abnormal eating behavior. That behavior could impact a person’s physical or mental health.
Disordered eating, as it is often referred to, can include restrictive eating and avoidance of certain foods. It may also involve purging by vomiting or the use of laxatives. Some people engage in compulsive exercise. Binge eating can also be a factor.
In all of these situations, a person may be engaging in these eating behaviors because of complex biological and psychological factors. There’s no simple reason for them to happen, but they can be highly unhealthy, creating long-term implications for health and well-being.
Why Do People With Eating Disorders Use Substances?
Data shared by the National Eating Disorders Association shows that about 50% of people with an eating disorder use alcohol or drugs as a way to manage symptoms or as a component of their mental health complications. That rate is about five times higher than the general population. What is the link? There are several factors that could contribute to this.
Self-Medicating
Eating disorders can cause pain while also causing intense physical and emotional trauma. Some people may turn to substances as a way of reducing those physical symptoms. Self-medicating may also help to ease the emotional pain and discomfort a person feels as they battle the mental health aspects of eating disorders.
Eating Disorders May Stem from SUDs
In some situations, an SUD may be the initial factor. A person may be using alcohol or drugs for a long period of time and develop an eating disorder as a result. Some people may go long periods without eating while using substances, only to binge eat during other periods.
A Stronger Impact
Some people find that using substances with their disordered eating creates a stronger impact. That could mean that they get more of a sense of gratification, relief, or high when they combine the experiences.
How Can Dual Diagnosis Treatment Help You?
Eating disorders and SUDs may go hand-in-hand, but getting help is critical. Both conditions can lead to physical complications and potentially shorten your lifespan. Getting help for both conditions at the same time provides relief, and it may help you to gain better control over your future.
At Iron Bridge, we offer a range of programs that could offer the help you need. That may start with a drug or alcohol detox program, which allows your body to rid itself of the chemical dependency you’ve developed. Our detox treatment programs reduce the pain and discomfort you feel during the process. We can also help navigate the physical ailments brought on by an eating disorder. That means help starts immediately.
From there, our dual diagnosis treatment program in Richmond, VA, begins with a full assessment and a personalized treatment plan developed to meet your unique needs. During this time, you’ll have access to physical, emotional, and mental health support. You’ll feel better, but most importantly, you’ll have a team of professionals supporting you as you transform your life.
We always offer a treatment plan meant to provide guidance, understanding, and encouragement to you. You’re empowered through the holistic and science-based strategies known for being highly effective. Healing is possible. With the right tools, you can reclaim your future. Find out what your insurance covers and get the help you need today.
Discuss Your Needs With Our Admissions Counselors
At Iron Bridge Recovery Center in Chester, Virginia, your physical and mental health are our priority. When you reach out to our team, we provide you with clarity on what treatment could help you. If you are battling eating disorders and SUDs, this type of hands-on help that’s respectful and built on effective treatment can be life-saving. Contact us now. We are available 24 hours a day to provide guidance on the next steps towards dual diagnosis treatment.
