Mental health conditions and substance use disorder (SUD) can have a significant impact on a person’s life. Living with one of these conditions can make many aspects of daily life more challenging.
People with a dual diagnosis (a mental health disorder and SUD) face even more challenges. The symptoms of a mental health condition can complicate addiction treatment, and substance abuse can worsen mental health symptoms.
Those living with a dual diagnosis (or co-occurring disorder) require comprehensive treatment programs to address both conditions. Dual diagnosis treatment programs provide mental health and substance abuse treatment together. This allows people to overcome an addiction to alcohol or drugs while learning to manage mental health symptoms.
This article will explore how to recognize and treat a dual diagnosis. You will learn:
- What it means to have a dual diagnosis
- Signs of co-occurring disorders
- What to expect in dual diagnosis treatment programs
- Where to find treatment for co-occurring disorders
If you or a loved one requires treatment for addiction and mental health issues, you are not alone. Find treatment and support at Agape Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an appointment.
What is a Dual Diagnosis?
A dual diagnosis means a diagnosis of a mental health disorder and substance use disorder (SUD).
People with a dual diagnosis may have any type of mental illness, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Personality disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
People living with co-occurring disorders may face more challenges in recovery than others. They require specialized treatment to address both conditions. Many also need ongoing support to maintain their recoveries and manage mental health disorders for life.
Agape Behavioral Center accepts many private insurance plans
7 Signs of a Dual Diagnosis
Living with a dual diagnosis can affect how a person thinks, behaves, and feels. It can impact relationships, daily functioning, and quality of life.
Recognizing a dual diagnosis in yourself or a loved one can help you seek treatment quickly. Here are seven signs of a dual diagnosis.
1. Using drugs or alcohol to cope with stress
Everyday life is full of stress. Traffic, deadlines, relationship challenges, and other things can cause anxiety. In many cases, people can cope with stress and move forward. However, people may also experience trauma or stress that overwhelms them. In this case, some people turn to drugs or alcohol for relief.
Using drugs or alcohol to deal with uncomfortable emotions is called “self-medication.” Self-medicating with drugs and alcohol increases the risk of developing a physical dependence or addiction.
2. Not enjoying things without using substances
People who find it hard to socialize or enjoy things without using drugs or alcohol may have a dual diagnosis. In some cases, mental health conditions can cause people to lose interest in life. People may rely on drugs or alcohol to feel comfortable in social situations or to enjoy other activities.
3. A family history of mental illness or addiction
Having close family members (parents, grandparents, or siblings) with mental health disorders or addiction may increase your risk of developing them, too. If you or a loved one has a family history of SUD or mental illness, they may be more likely to develop a dual diagnosis.
4. Isolation
Substance use disorder (SUD) and untreated mental health disorders can lead to increased isolation. People may withdraw from friends and family or only spend time with others when using drugs or alcohol.
5. Lying or hiding substance use
People with a dual diagnosis may be secretive about their substance use. They may use drugs or alcohol to cover up symptoms of a mental health condition, then hide their substance use.
6. Developing tolerance
Tolerance occurs when a person’s body adjusts to a specific amount of a substance. People who frequently use drugs or alcohol may find that they need to use more of a substance to get the desired effects. Over time, people may develop a high tolerance for drugs or alcohol, putting them at risk of an overdose.
7. New or worsening mental health symptoms
Drug and alcohol abuse can worsen mental health symptoms or cause people to develop new ones. If someone who drinks or uses drugs begins to notice new mental health symptoms, it may be a sign that they require dual diagnosis treatment.
Mental health challenges can worsen mental health symptoms. Mental health symptoms can affect a person’s ability to recover from addiction, and addiction can worsen mental health symptoms. Specialized, integrated treatment options can help people recover and move forward.
What to Expect in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment programs integrate high-quality SUD treatment and mental health care. Treatment plans might include:
- Assessments and screenings
- Medical detox programs
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms (tremors, nausea, sweating, mood swings, etc)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other therapies
- Support groups
- Family education and counseling
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies like mindfulness, exercise, and creative expression
- Aftercare planning and support programs
Dual diagnosis treatment programs provide structure and care that allows people to address the roots of addiction and mental illness. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of a dual diagnosis.
Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment
If you or a loved one requires co-occurring disorder treatment, find the support you need at Agape Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an appointment.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Co-Occurring Disorders and Health Conditions
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Co-Occurring Disorders and Other Health Conditions
