Dual Disorders and support structure

[spdnet75]

I was recently accepted into a dual disorder treatment program. It is called SAMI ( Substance Abuse/Mental Illness. )

Last year around this time, I sought treatment for my alcoholism. I was lucky enough to find a number of resources available to me. The problem was that I also suffer from Bipolar Disorder and the two afflictions were essentially working against one another.

After nearly a year and less than stellar results in battling my alcoholism, my counselor pushed to get me accepted into this Dual Disorder program. ( They generally reserve this type of program for folks who have had little or no luck getting things under control through more conventional means. )

I'm excited to have these two issues of mine dealt with as a part of one program, considering that these types of things tend to feed off of one another and lead people in circles.

I would like to know if anyone else out there has been lucky enough to be offered this kind of support and if so, how they are doing with it.

Stephen

 

[mariah22]

That is great that u found help and are feeling better.

 

[Protinus]

I'm glad that you have this opportunity Stephen!! Stay with the program and remember that there are many others that aren't as lucky as you with regard to such a program! Stay with it, work it, try to offer others what you have learned about yourself...because you never truly recover unless we help others to do so!

Best of luck Stephen!!

 

[Alive again]

I'm glad that you have this opportunity Stephen!! Stay with the program and remember that there are many others that aren't as lucky as you with regard to such a program! Stay with it, work it, try to offer others what you have learned about yourself...because you never truly recover unless we help others to do so!

Best of luck Stephen!!

Praying for you that this is the help you need to deal with thse issues. i know of many communities with dual diagnosis support groups, but have never heard of a program designed specially for these issues!!! i am excited for this opportunity for you. I know my son will face these issues one day as he is currently self medicating his bp with drugs, alcohol and tobacco instead opf th4 meds prescribed by doctors. He verbalizes that he can't afford the $15 copay, but somehow he always has the money for the other stuff.
Somehow missed these issues in the progression of my illness, but dual diagnosis with bp is a very common problem. And you are right, they really feed off of each other. Remember, alcohol, street drugs, even cigarettes are powerful mood changers. God bless!

Utilize this program to the fullest and ask lots of questions. be as honest with yourself as you can be. I will pray for you and your success in this program. What a blessed and exciting opportunity. Keep us posted!