Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders or comorbidity, refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in an individual. Dual diagnosis treatment is a complex issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that between 25% and 50% of people who struggle with addiction also have a mental health disorder, and vice versa.
Substance abuse and mental health disorders are often interrelated. Many people who struggle with a mental health disorder turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate or alleviate their symptoms. On the other hand, substance abuse can cause or exacerbate mental health problems. Substance abuse can cause changes in brain chemistry and affect mood, behavior, and cognitive function, leading to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Mental Health Disorders
A wide range of mental health disorders can co-occur with substance use disorders. Some of the most common mental health disorders associated with dual diagnosis include the following:
Depression
It is a mood disorder. Individuals with depression may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate and cope with their symptoms.
Anxiety
It is a group of mental health disorders. People with anxiety disorders may use drugs or alcohol to calm their nerves or reduce their anxiety.
Bipolar Disorder
It is a mood disorder characterized by extreme mood swings, including episodes of mania and depression. Individuals with bipolar disorder may turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate and manage their symptoms.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
It is a mental health disorder that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. People with PTSD may use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their symptoms or to try to forget the traumatic event.
Substance Abuse Disorders
A wide range of substances can be involved in dual diagnosis. Some of the most common substances associated with dual diagnosis include the following:
Alcohol
It is a chronic and relapsing disease that is characterized by a strong desire to drink, an inability to control drinking, and withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop drinking.
Opioids
It is a chronic disease that is characterized by the compulsive use of opioids, even in the face of negative consequences.
Stimulants
It is a chronic disease that is characterized by the compulsive use of stimulant drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine.
Marijuana
It is a chronic disease that is characterized by the compulsive use of marijuana, even in the face of negative consequences.
Prescription Drugs
It is a chronic disease that is characterized by the compulsive use of prescription drugs, even in the face of negative consequences.
Dual diagnosis can be challenging to diagnose and treat for several reasons. Firstly, symptoms of mental health disorders and substance use disorders can overlap, making it difficult to distinguish one disorder from the other. Secondly, people with dual diagnosis often face stigma and discrimination, which can make it harder for them to access the help they need. Thirdly, people with dual diagnosis often have complex needs that require a comprehensive and integrated approach to treatment.
Effective treatment for dual diagnosis requires a comprehensive and integrated approach that addresses both the mental health disorder and the substance use disorder. Treatment may involve a combination of medication, therapy, and support services.