Dual diagnosis
Dual diagnosis (also referred to as co-occurring disorders) is a term for when someone experiences a mental illness and a substance use disorder simultaneously. Dual diagnosis is a broad category that can include a person who has a mood disorder such as depression or bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) and a problem with alcohol or drugs. A person who has a drug problem along with a serious mental health condition, such as schizophrenia, is also said to have a dual diagnosis.
Overview[edit]
To understand dual diagnosis, it's important to understand the concept of mental illness and substance use disorder. Mental illnesses are conditions that affect a person's thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily functioning. Substance use disorders occur when the recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs causes clinically and functionally significant impairment, such as health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home.
Symptoms[edit]
The symptoms of dual diagnosis vary greatly between individuals, as the types of mental health disorders and substance use disorders can vary widely. However, common symptoms can include:
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Using substances under dangerous conditions
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Loss of control over use of substances
- Developing a high tolerance and withdrawal symptoms
- Feeling the need to use substances to function normally
- Experiencing legal trouble
- Having problems fulfilling obligations
Treatment[edit]
Treatment for dual diagnosis is usually a combination of medication, counseling, and support. Medication can be used to manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse, and treat any co-occurring conditions. Counseling can help the person understand their disorder, learn to manage it, and develop coping strategies and tools to prevent relapse. Support groups can provide a community of individuals who understand the experience of dual diagnosis and can provide a supportive network of understanding and advice.
See also[edit]
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