DOUBLE TROUBLE IN RECOVERY: SELF-HELP FOR PEOPLE WITH DUAL DIAGNOSES

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Addiction Medicine
• Behavioral Health

Background:

• Managed care necessitates cost-effective treatment modalities.
• Traditional self-help groups are insufficient for dually diagnosed individuals.
• Growing need for specialized support for co-occurring disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR), a 12-step self-help group.
• To highlight DTR's unique approach for individuals with psychiatric disabilities and chemical addiction.
• To present preliminary findings on DTR's effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Data collected from four DTR sites in New York City.
• Analysis of member history of psychiatric disabilities and substance abuse.
• Assessment of attendance and recent substance use.
• Member ratings comparing DTR to conventional 12-step meetings.

Main Results:

• DTR members have extensive histories of psychiatric and substance use disorders.
• Members demonstrate active engagement in recovery through DTR attendance.
• Limited recent substance use suggests positive impact of DTR.
• DTR provides a comfortable and safe environment for discussing dual recovery needs.

Conclusions:

• DTR effectively addresses the unique needs of the dually diagnosed.
• The group facilitates a safe space for discussing psychiatric conditions, medication, and substance abuse.
• Preliminary data indicate DTR's positive influence on dual recovery efforts.