Comprehensive Support for Mental Health and Substance Use

Dual diagnosis treatment in Fresno addresses the complex relationship between mental health conditions and substance use disorders (SUD). At Vitalize Behavioral Health and Psychometrics, we offer integrated care for people who are navigating both challenges simultaneously.

A dual diagnosis means that an individual is coping with a mental illness, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, and a substance use disorder involving alcohol, prescription drugs, or illicit substances. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, this co-occurrence is more common than many people realize—and requires a specialized approach to treatment.

If you’re struggling with both addiction and mental health issues, know that you’re not alone—and that effective, compassionate help is available right here in Fresno.

What Is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis, also referred to as co-occurring disorders, involves the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. These conditions often interact in ways that intensify symptoms and complicate recovery. For example, someone with depression may turn to alcohol to cope with emotional pain, while someone with PTSD may use substances to numb distressing memories or anxiety.

At Vitalize, we provide evidence-based dual diagnosis treatment that addresses both conditions together, not in isolation.

Signs and Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis

Because dual diagnosis involves two types of disorders, symptoms can vary significantly. However, there are some common warning signs that may indicate the need for co-occurring disorder treatment:

Symptoms of Mental Health Disorders:

• Mood swings or changes in mood

• Increased anxiety or persistent depression

• Problems with concentration

• Impulsive behavior or poor decision-making

• Shifts in behavior or personality

Symptoms of Substance Use Disorders:

• Craving substances or being unable to stop using

• Withdrawal symptoms when not using

• Using substances to cope with stress or emotions

• Difficulty maintaining work, school, or family responsibilities

• Risky behavior under the influence

These overlapping symptoms often make diagnosis and treatment more complicated, which is why working with trained mental health professionals is essential.

Risk Factors for Dual Diagnosis

While one disorder doesn’t necessarily cause the other, they often develop together due to shared risk factors such as:

• Genetic predisposition to mental illness or addiction

• Exposure to chronic stress or traumatic events

• Early substance use during brain development

• Use of drugs or alcohol to self-medicate mental health symptoms

• Brain changes caused by substance use that increase vulnerability to mental illness

Untreated co-occurring disorders can worsen over time, so early intervention with a personalized treatment plan is key.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Vitalize

We provide comprehensive, trauma-informed, and research-supported treatment for dual diagnosis in Fresno. Our goal is to treat the whole person, helping clients achieve long-term mental health recovery and sobriety.

Your customized treatment plan may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge unhelpful beliefs and reframe negative thoughts

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation and coping

• Medication management to address mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder

• Group therapy and family therapy to rebuild relationships and gain support

• Psychoeducation about addiction and mental illness

• Access to support groups and relapse prevention planning

We also offer trauma-focused therapy when past experiences, such as abuse, sexual assault, or military service, are a part of the picture. Our team is trained to assess and treat these overlapping challenges with skill and compassion.

Why Integrated Treatment Matters

Treating substance use and mental health issues separately often leads to relapse, incomplete recovery, or missed diagnoses. Our dual diagnosis rehab in Fresno offers an integrated approach, using the latest tools and insights from research studies and clinical practice to help you achieve real, lasting change.

Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or have struggled for years, it’s never too late to seek professional help. People respond differently to treatment, which is why we emphasize individual therapy, flexible support, and regular check-ins throughout your recovery journey.

Start Your Healing Journey Today

At Vitalize Behavioral Health and Psychometrics, we understand the challenges of dual diagnosis—and we’re here to help you navigate them with clarity, confidence, and care. If you’re ready to take the next step toward recovery, our team is here to guide you.

Call today to learn more about dual diagnosis treatment in Fresno and get started on a path toward greater well-being, stability, and hope.

Note: The information on this page is provided in part by the National Institute of Mental Health. For more up-to-date information, click here.