Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses. They are characterized by abnormal, irregular eating habits, and an extreme concern with one’s body weight or shape. There are several different manifestations of eating disorders. The various types are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) under the Disorder Class: Feeding and Eating Disorders. The three most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder. The exact cause behind why an individual develops an eating disorder remains unknown, but research has found that it is likely due to a combination of psychological, biological, and environmental factors. Eating disorders can be debilitating and can adversely affect an individual’s emotions, health, and interfere with one’s ability to adequately function in his or her daily.
What Is A Dual Diagnosis?
Individuals that are diagnosed with both a mental disorder such as an eating disorder and substance use disorder hold a dual diagnosis. All aspects of dual diagnosis treatment are designed to support an individual through the recovery process with dual foci. It is essential to address and treat one’s substance abuse issues concurrently with the treatment of his or her eating disorder throughout the entire continuum of care. The co morbid disorders contribute to one another, and treatment for one should not be prioritized over the other during any stage of one’s recovery. While eating disorders and substance use disorder are life-long conditions, with proper treatment, an individual can learn how to effectively manage the symptoms associated with one’s eating disorder and remain sober.
Dual Diagnosis Sober Living Options
There is a plethora of different options when it comes to sober living facilities. Sober living homes each hold distinct characteristics, are in different geographical areas, offer a variety of wide-ranging amenities, and many specialize in accommodating individual’s nuanced needs. Most sober living facilities are privately owned, and as such will have a distinct set of house rules and regulations as well as corresponding consequences for violations. It is highly recommended for individuals with a dual diagnosis to select a sober living facility that specializes in working with individuals with co-occurring disorders. The length of time an individual opts to reside in a sober living facility will differ. The Journal of Psychoactive Drugs found that the average stay in a sober living facility ranges between 166 to 254 days. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the length of time an individual spends in substance abuse treatment (including sober living) can directly increase his or her outcome in recovery. Individuals recovering from an eating disorder that wish to move into a sober living home have myriad options, as there are a wide variety of specialized sober livings available that accommodate individuals with a dual diagnosis.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-318-3777. You are also welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
