Bipolar and Addiction Treatment in NJ

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Bipolar disorder is a mental illness marked by episodes of serious mood swings. When a person’s moods swing from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, it can be difficult to cope in a healthy way. Substance use may feel like an escape from the pain or chaos caused by one’s mental illness, and can lead to the use becoming a dependency or addiction.

Treatment for both bipolar and addiction at the same time, or dual diagnosis treatment, is the most effective way to address the issues involved in the two. Willow Ridge Recovery offers a comprehensive treatment for those struggling with bipolar disorder and addiction, including a facility for bipolar and addiction treatment in NJ.

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Bipolar Disorder: What You Should Know

Bipolar disorder can affect every aspect of an individual’s life. It is not just a matter of experiencing mood swings. The two types of bipolar disorder are:

Bipolar I

The most severe type of the disorder. It involves manic episodes that can land an individual in the hospital.

Bipolar II

Less intense manic episodes, known as hypomania, in addition to depressive episodes. While Bipolar II is generally less severe than Bipolar I, it can create a great deal of emotional distress and functional impairment.

Symptoms of the disorder can make it difficult to maintain relationships, work, and day-to-day functioning, which can also make co-occurring conditions such as addiction challenging to treat.

The Connection Between Bipolar Disorder and Addiction

People with bipolar disorder are more susceptible to addiction due to the nature of the condition’s challenges. During manic episodes, impulsive behaviors—including drug or alcohol use—are heightened. Conversely, depressive episodes often lead to feelings of hopelessness, which may drive people to self-medicate with substances.

What We Treat at Willow Ridge Recovery

Addiction Treatment Programs in Monmouth County That Offer You the Power of Choice in Treatment

Alcohol Use

Learn more about our alcohol rehab in NJ.

Substance Use

Find out how our programs can help you.

Dual-Diagnosis

Explore our co-occurring treatment programs.

Mental Health

We offer primary mental health treatment.

Understanding Bipolar and Addiction

How Common is Co-Occurring Bipolar and Addiction?

Statistics highlight the significant overlap between bipolar disorder and addiction:

  • About 56% of individuals with bipolar disorder will experience substance use disorder at some point in their lives. 
  • Individuals with bipolar disorder are 7 times more likely to develop alcohol dependency compared to those without any mental health disorders. 
  • The risk of drug addiction is 14 times higher for those with bipolar disorder. 

These numbers underscore the importance of seeking professional dual diagnosis treatment.

Signs You May Need Bipolar and Addiction Treatment in NJ

Someone living with a bipolar addiction may exhibit various emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms. Emotional symptoms can manifest as extreme excitement or hyperactivity during manic episodes or severe feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or fatigue during depressive episodes. Irritability, anger, and heightened impulsivity are also emotional signs that an individual may be dealing with an addiction and bipolar disorder.

Behavioral signs include significant changes in substance use patterns, such as increased drinking or drug use during manic or depressive episodes. They can also include impulsivity in decision-making, such as using substances to cope with intense emotions or fluctuations. Loss of interest in responsibilities, hobbies, or social activities as substance use intensifies is another behavioral sign that someone is living with addiction and bipolar disorder.

Symptoms of the impact of bipolar disorder and addiction on physical and mental health can also manifest in different ways. During manic episodes, individuals can become restless, agitated, or unusually talkative or energetic. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness, can occur due to mood swings. Cognitive impairment, which can result from substance use or bipolar disorder, can also be a symptom.

If both bipolar disorder and addiction are left untreated, they can perpetuate one another and negatively impact every area of a person’s life. Receiving professional support through integrated dual-diagnosis treatment is critical to help a person break the cycle and achieve a stable foundation for recovery.

Our Treatment Program

Dual Diagnosis Recovery Treatment in NJ | Willow Ridge Recovery

Individualized mental health treatment and drug and alcohol addiction recovery. Our bipolar and addiction treatment in NJ is built on a foundation of evidence-based treatment, psychiatric care, and holistic therapies.

Step 1: Evaluation

Treating bipolar disorder and addiction effectively means first understanding your unique needs and what you need to recover. During your evaluation, our licensed medical staff will take a comprehensive look at your physical health, history of addiction, and mental health in order to develop a treatment plan personalized to you that will address both of your conditions.

Step 2: Detox and Medical Stabilization

Some clients come to us in need of medical detox. If you are physically dependent on a substance, the detox process allows you to break this dependence in a safe and monitored environment.

Withdrawal symptoms can be physically and emotionally challenging. Detoxification is one of the initial and most important steps to take on the journey to recovery.

During detox, your primary focus will be on your physical stabilization, which is essential if you’re coping with bipolar disorder.

Step 3: Therapy and Psychiatric Care

Psychotherapy and psychiatric care are combined to provide a robust treatment approach. Our licensed and certified therapists will work to treat both your bipolar disorder and addiction simultaneously.

Individual Therapy

Our one-on-one counseling sessions will help you address the underlying issues that have led to your bipolar disorder and addiction. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) are two psychotherapies that are effective for both bipolar disorder and addiction. Through DBT, you will learn how to self-soothe, better manage your emotions, and cope with stress.

Group Therapy

Bipolar disorder and addiction both tend to isolate the people who have them. At Willow Ridge Recovery, we believe that connection and a sense of community are essential for effective addiction and mental health treatment. In group therapy, you will have the opportunity not only to share your experience with others but also to help other people.

Medical Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

When working with a client who has bipolar disorder, it’s important for the client to learn how to manage their moods so they can live a balanced life. It’s not a simple task, which is why we’re here to help. Our psychiatrists may prescribe mood stabilizers, such as lithium, anticonvulsant medication, or atypical antipsychotics.

Holistic Recovery Programs

We strive to offer an individualized program for you. Therapies like yoga, nutrition, and fitness are also part of our therapy program. Holistic and alternative treatments are complementary and are a critical component of individualized care.

 

  • Mindfulness and Yoga:  Mindfulness practices can teach you grounding skills that are effective during manic and depressive episodes. Meditation and yoga also help you develop coping skills to manage stress.

 

  • Creative Therapy: For clients who are more comfortable with non-verbal therapies, art and music therapy allow people to express and work through emotional pain and stress in a therapeutic setting.

 

  • Nutrition and Fitness: Nutrition, exercise, and fitness are an important part of holistic care. These modalities improve your physical health, which, in turn, helps you achieve better emotional stability.

 

  • Long-Term Recovery Support: The work doesn’t stop when you leave our program. We offer aftercare support as you transition back into your life and begin maintaining your recovery. The aftercare program we offer includes relapse prevention, therapy, support groups, and assistance with adjusting to independent living and recovery.



Transitional Care

Clients transitioning between treatment levels will be able to move between levels of care, such as from inpatient to PHP or to outpatient counseling at Willow Ridge Recovery.

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Levels of Care at Willow Ridge Recovery

1. Inpatient Treatment

For those with severe symptoms of bipolar disorder and addiction, 24/7 inpatient treatment provides a safe, structured environment. Clients can focus entirely on their recovery with personalized plans that include detox, intensive therapy, and medical care.

2. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

PHP is perfect for clients who need structured care during the day but are ready to return home—or a supportive environment—each evening. This level of care includes comprehensive therapy, addiction treatment, and mental health support.

3. Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment provides ongoing therapy and addiction recovery services while allowing clients to maintain their daily responsibilities, like work or school. This level of care is effective for those with mild symptoms or who have progressed through inpatient or PHP programs.

Client Testimonials

Our Clients Trust Us When It Comes to Addiction Treatment in Monmouth County, NJ

The Willow Ridge Recovery Center Difference

Why Choose Willow Ridge Recovery for Bipolar and Addiction Treatment in NJ?

At Willow Ridge Recovery, we specialize in dual diagnosis care led by professionals who understand the complex relationship between bipolar disorder and substance use. Our integrated approach addresses both conditions simultaneously, helping clients achieve lasting recovery and emotional balance. Each treatment plan is individualized to meet your specific needs, goals, and health challenges, ensuring personalized therapy and medical support that treats you as a whole person. Located in Monmouth County, NJ, our serene residential facility provides a safe, tranquil environment designed for healing—free from outside distractions so you can focus fully on your recovery journey.

Contact Us Today

Heal from Bipolar Disorder and Addiction at the Same Time - Call Willow Ridge Today

Dual diagnosis doesn’t have to be your new normal or the end of the road. Willow Ridge Recovery is a dual diagnosis treatment center that specializes in bipolar and addiction treatment that is right for you. Our expertly trained staff, evidence-based therapeutic modalities, medical support, and dual diagnosis care are just what you need to take back your mind, body, and life.

We are here to help you every step of the way, from when you first call our compassionate admissions team to after you complete our program. Our admissions specialists will answer any questions you have, help you verify insurance, and walk you through the details of each of our programs so you can make an informed decision about which program is right for you. Your recovery is an individualized process and may begin with medical detox, residential treatment, or outpatient therapy, and when you do, you will have a team behind you all the way, so you never have to walk this journey alone. Call us today to learn more. 



How Mental Health Disorders and Addiction Intersect
Faq's

FAQs About Bipolar and Addiction Treatment in NJ

What makes bipolar and addiction treatment different from other types of care?

Dual diagnosis treatment focuses on both mental illness and addiction—helping clients build emotional resilience while overcoming substance dependency.

Can bipolar disorder lead to addiction?

Yes. Bipolar disorder can cause impulsive behavior during manic episodes and self-medication during depressive periods, leading to addiction.

How do you treat bipolar disorder and addiction at the same time?

We combine therapies for mood stabilization and addiction recovery, such as CBT, DBT, and medication management. Both conditions are treated simultaneously to ensure long-term success.

How long does bipolar and addiction treatment take?

Recovery timelines vary based on individual needs:

Inpatient care: Typically 30–90 days.

PHP: Usually lasts 4–6 weeks.

Outpatient: Flexible and ongoing based on progress.