What is dual diagnosis? (2023)

A dual diagnosis, also known as a concurrent disorder, is when a person is diagnosed with both a mental disorder and a substance use disorder.

An example of a dual diagnosis is having an alcohol or drug use disorder and a mental illness, such as a mood disorder or anxiety disorder, he saidMadan, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine.

If you or a relative has a dual diagnosis,You are not alone. In 2020, 17 million adults in the United States live with mental illness and substance use disorders.

Often have a dual diagnosisno coincidence"Mental illness is about twice as common among people diagnosed with a drug addiction," says Dr. Cavallo. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that about half of people with a substance use disorder also suffer from a mental illness at some point in their lives, and vice versa.

This article explores the causes of dual diagnosis, the diagnostic process and treatment options, and some coping strategies that may be helpful.

Causes of Dual Diagnosis

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), here are some reasons why substance use disorders and mental illness coexist.

common risk factors

Both substance use disorders and mental illness share common risk factors, such asemphasizeandtrauma. Genetic factors may also play a role, since mental illness and substance use disorders often run in families.

Mental Illness Can Lead to Substance Abuse

Mental illness can change a person's brain, making them more susceptible to the beneficial effects of alcohol. This can make them more likely to continue using the substance and develop a diseaseseekalso.

For example, people with anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may turn to substances like alcohol or drugs to help them feel better. Although substances can provide a temporary remedy, over time they can worsen the symptoms of these conditions.

Substance use can lead to mental illness

Substance use can also change the situationbrainIn a way that makes a person more vulnerable to mental illness. Therefore, people who use alcohol or substances may be more likely to develop mental health problems, and the longer they use substances, the greater the risk of mental illness, Dr. Cavallo.

Diagnosis of Simultaneous Faults

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) states that symptoms of co-occurring disorders can vary widely depending on an individual's medical condition.

Interpreting these symptoms is often difficult because mental health symptoms can be related to patterns of substance use, intoxicating effects, and even other factorswithdrawalAssociated with specific substances, Dr. explained. Cavallo. "For example, a person may stop using cocaine, and the acute effect may be depressed mood."

So it's also important to ask about any symptoms that may or may not have been present prior to substance use, and whether substance use worsened psychiatric symptoms, says Dr. Cavallo. "Recognize psychosocial triggers, such as great stress ortrauma historyJust as importantly, both disorders can be the underlying cause. "

Treatment of Concurrent Diseases

Treatment of concurrent disease requires an integrated approach.

"Dual diagnosis treatment must address both mental illness and substance abuse because both can have a significant impact on a person's life. Therefore, the approach to treatment is to integrate the two disorders together, rather than focusing on each disorder individually, " Cavallo.

These are some of the treatments a healthcare provider may recommend when facing a dual diagnosis:

• Detoxification:The first step, and this can be a major hurdle, is to stop using these substances and flush them out of the system. thisdetoxificationThe procedure is often performed in an inpatient setting, so healthcare providers can monitor the patient and provide medication and care if the patient experiences withdrawal symptoms.
• Psychotherapy:Therapy is often an important part of the treatment plan.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Often helps to change unhealthy thought patterns that lead to substance use. Some people may need intensive treatment at first, but once their symptoms are under control and they learn useful coping skills, they can reduce the frequency of treatment, says Dr. Cavallo.
• drug:Medication not only helps with withdrawal symptoms, but also helps reduce cravings for drugs and alcohol, and relieves symptoms of mental illness.
• Inpatient rehabilitation:People with co-morbidities may benefit from inpatient rehabilitation, where they receive ongoing monitoring and psychological care.
• Self-Help Groups:Dealing with a dual diagnosis can be challenging.mutual aid groupProvide opportunities for people to share advice, celebrate successes, vent frustrations, find resources, and offer help and inspiration.

For example, you don’t want to use it to treat anxietyPotentially Abused Drugs;Likewise, people don't want to treat a substance use disorder without understanding the person's use of the substance and how it affects them, Dr. Cavallo.

Dealing with Dual Diagnosis

Dr. Cavallo suggests some strategies that may help manage dual diagnoses:

• For help:The first step in helping someone deal with a dual diagnosis is convincing themask for help.Finding a compassionate provider who is willing to listen and understand how the diagnosis affects their physical health, emotional health, and social life is a must for a successful intervention.
• Actively participate in treatment:Talking to a professional is just the beginning of the recovery process. Active participation in treatment is critical. It is very beneficial to fully participate in treatment and provide appropriate support both inside and outside of the treatment plan.
• Focus on feeling better:Any mental disorder or substance use disorder presents various challenges for patients, their friends and family. A dual diagnosis can complicate treatment plans, but education, support, therapy, and medication can help those affected recover and live productive lives.

A word from Verywell

Dealing with a substance use disorder can be challenging, and a dual diagnosis can make it even more difficult because both conditions are exacerbated by co-occurring disorders.It is important to seek help, get an accurate diagnosis, and in these cases treat to feel better.