WHAT IS A DUAL DIAGNOSIS?
A dual diagnosis is classified where people who have a substance use disorder also suffer from a co-occurring mental health or behavioural disorder. This can often cause a disruption when an individual is trying to recover from substance addiction. The mental health issues that affect addicts are referred to as “co-occurring disorders” and “co-morbid disorders”. By having the correct diagnosis and the proper treatment, this can ease an individual’s way to recovery.
COMMON MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS
- Bipolar disorder
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS
A patient who has a dual diagnosis must be treated for both conditions. In order for the treatment to be most effective, the individual must stop engaging in substance abuse with drugs or alcohol. Some possible treatments might include medication or therapy.
Support groups can also offer support for dealing with situations where advice can be shared on how to deal with daily challenges.