Adapting the chronic disease model in the treatment of dually diagnosed patients

This article suggests that while the focal point of inpatient treatment in the field of addiction should continue to be abstinence and 12-step programs, there should be considerable modification of the process of treatment. Many of the present inpatient psychiatric hospitals that treat addiction seem to be largely unaware of the biochemistry and physiology of early recovery. A model of treatment is proposed that takes into account the neurocognitive impairment and emotional augmentation that is present in early recovery. The focus of active treatment in this program is the treatment of the addictive process. The psychiatric diagnosis is managed through supportive psychotherapy and/or education if appropriate. Active treatment of the psychiatric diagnosis is deferred to outpatient treatment.