What Is A Dual Diagnosis?
A dual diagnosis arises when a person suffers from one or more psychological conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, or behavioral disorder) as well as one or more drug use addictions (such as opioid or alcohol abuse). Dual diagnoses are also known as co-occurring disorders or comorbidity.
A dual diagnosis includes both alcohol or drug overuse and underlying mental health problems. Using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate can make problems worse. Self-medicating can hide the symptoms of a mental health illness, therefore delaying the illness. Visit House of Zen to begin a journey toward complete recovery.
Dual Diagnosis Risk Factors
• Genetics: It may affect the development of a variety of mental health issues, including addiction.
• Environmental triggers: Chronic stress or traumatic events might occur just before the first signs of an addiction or mental illness.
• Early exposure: Trying alcohol or drugs during youth increases the risk of developing substance abuse and psychological disorders in adulthood.
Dual Diagnosis Risk Factors
Several factors may increase your chance of having a dual diagnosis, such as:
- • Genetics: It may affect the development of a variety of mental health issues, including addiction.
- • Environmental triggers: Chronic stress or traumatic events might occur just before the first signs of an addiction or mental illness.
- • Early exposure: Trying alcohol or drugs during youth increases the risk of developing substance abuse and psychological disorders in adulthood.
Dual Diagnosis Residential Treatment
Medical professionals consider several factors during clinical assessment for dual diagnosis facilities. In general, they will assess that person.
- • Meets the criteria for a mental disorder.
- • Has a past of using drugs that has negatively affected their mental health, relationships, work, and social life.
- • They may serve as a danger to themselves or others, have a record of violence, or have had suicidal thoughts.
- • Has a support network and resources accessible.
- • Is motivated to go through rehabilitation and has the necessary support for the treatment to be effective.
Warning Signs Of A Co-Occurring Disorder
While the signs and symptoms vary significantly from person to person, there are a few usual signs to look for.
Some behavioral changes might include:
- • Regular absences from a job or studies.
- • A dramatic drop in work or academic performance.
- • Involving in secretive or suspicious actions.
- • Alteration in sleeping or eating habits.
- • Mood swings, frustration, or aggressive behavior.
- • Personality or attitudes change.
- • Lack of ambition.
- • Sudden discomfort, anxiety, or panic attack.
Some of the physical alert signs are:
- • Red eyes or changes in the size of the pupil.
- • Sudden Weight fluctuations.
- • Poor physical sanitation.
- • Shaking
- • Impaired coordination
You may also see variations in social behavior, including:
- • Lack of Interest in Old Hobbies
- • Change in friendship group
- • explained demand for money or financial challenges
- • Continuing to take drugs even knowing they are generating problems in relationships.
How Common Are Co-Occurring Disorders?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, co-occurring disorders are quite prevalent. In 2021, approximately 19.4 million American people will be diagnosed with co-occurring illnesses. The prevalence was highest among young persons aged 18 to 25.
Common Mental Health Disorders That Co-Occur
Several mental health issues are associated with drug and alcohol addiction. It is believed that more than 40% of those who struggle with addiction also have mental health problems. It is necessary to remember that patients with a dual diagnosis have two distinct disorders. Some of these conditions include:
Schizophrenia and Addiction
Schizophrenia is a psychological illness that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Schizophrenia can be linked to alcohol or drug misuse. A few signs or symptoms of schizophrenia include hallucinations and an altered view of reality. A wrong perception of reality will harm personal connections.
Bipolar Disorder and Addiction
Bipolar disorder was once known as Manic Disorder and is often confused with borderline personality disorder. A person with this disease develops frustrated behaviors and mood fluctuations. There are three forms of bipolar disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. Bipolar illness can be accompanied by drug misuse.
Depression and Addiction
Clinical depression is recognized when you have symptoms for more than half a month. A person suffering from depression has excessive manifestations in their thinking, emotions, eating, and sleeping habits. HoZ addresses dual diagnosis, which might be beneficial in treating depression and addiction issues.
Personality Disorder and Addiction
Personality Disorder is a psychiatric condition characterized by an individual’s dysfunctional behavior. This form of disease impairs relationships. Some common personality disorders include:
- • Paranoid personality disorder
- • Schizoid personality disorder
Eating Disorders and Addiction
Eating disorders are hazardous and can be life-threatening. Eating disorders influence people of all races, genders, and social backgrounds. Some prevalent eating problems include:
- • Bulimia
- • Anorexia
- • Binge eating
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-term disorder. It is a condition in which you get overly preoccupied with one specific thought or emotion. It occurs again and again.
Post Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Addiction (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition caused by a traumatic event. Nightmares and flashbacks are among the reoccurring symptoms. PTSD symptoms might appear years or even months after the triggering incident.
Treatment For Dual Diagnosis
Treatment for co-occurring substance abuse and mental disorders requires collaboration between mental health and addiction specialists.
Therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a technique that focuses on adapting specific cognitive patterns that lead to adverse actions.
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can help you manage strong emotions and improve your relationships by teaching you coping skills.
• Group therapy is a successful intervention that lets you connect with people on a path to recovery and healing
• Contingency management (CM) is a therapy that encourages positive attitudes by providing vouchers or prizes.
Medication
Several mental health problems can be treated with prescription medication. Some substance abuse, such as alcohol, opioids, and nicotine, can be treated with medication. This medication helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Benefits of Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Having a dual diagnosis can be complicated. It may require more therapy than dealing with just one mental health issue. The beneficial effects of dual diagnosis residential treatment are that the patient can:
- • Get the necessary therapy to avoid using drugs or alcohol.
- • Receive treatment that helps them manage their mental health condition.
- • Work with a therapist to find out the connection between their co-occurring illnesses.
- • Address the history of addiction and the reasons for their mental health issues.
- • Learn coping strategies for mental health concerns.
- • Identify and prevent triggers related to relapse.
- • Increase their motivation to engage in therapy.
Dual Diagnosis Rehab Program at HoZ
HoZ knows that many people who battle with drug and alcohol addiction also have mental health issues. We think long-term recovery begins with addressing both illnesses simultaneously and allowing patients to heal physically and mentally. We provide dual diagnosis treatment in our inpatient and outpatient programs at our facilities.
The House of Zen can assist you or a loved one struggling with mental health issues and drug addiction. For more information about our therapy options, please get in touch with HoZ and talk with a team member.
For more information
It is important to find the right therapy for you or a loved one. Learning is the key to identifying the best facility to meet all of your needs. If you or a loved one need information about dual diagnosis or treatment plans. Please contact the House of Zen team directly.
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