Dual Diagnosis Disorder: What Is It and How to Treat It Effectively?

Dual diagnosis occurs when a person has both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder simultaneously. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association:

• 50% of individuals with severe mental disorders also experience substance abuse.
• 37% of alcohol abusers and 53% of drug abusers have at least one serious mental health condition.
• 29% of those diagnosed with a mental illness also abuse alcohol or drugs.

Dual diagnosis is much more common than many realize. And ignoring these issues can make them worse rather than better. But what does exactly dual diagnosis mean, how can it be recognized, and how can it be treated? 

Learn more about it in this blog post with Revive Health & Recovery!

What is dual diagnosis disorder?

A dual diagnosis refers to having both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder (SUD), which may involve alcohol or drugs. This is a form of comorbidity, which refers to having two disorders simultaneously, also known as co-occurring disorders.

Mental health and substance use disorders frequently appear together. Many individuals with SUDs are also diagnosed with mental health conditions, and vice versa. Dual diagnosis is especially common among teenagers, people with severe mental illness, and those with specific mental disorders.

What are the signs and symptoms of dual diagnosis disorder?

Both your substance addiction and mental health issues come with their own symptoms, so the symptoms of dual diagnosis will depend on the specific substances and mental health disorders involved. Since there are many different combinations of dual diagnoses, symptoms can vary greatly from person to person.

Symptoms of substance use disorder

Substances that are commonly abused include prescription medications (like opioid painkillers, ADHD medications, and sedatives), recreational or street drugs (such as marijuana, methamphetamines, and cocaine), and alcohol (including beer, wine, and liquor).

Signs of a substance use disorder may include:

• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sudden behavior changes
• Engaging in risky activities
• Developing a high tolerance for the substance or experiencing withdrawal symptoms
• Feeling dependent on the substance to function

Symptoms of mental health disorder

The most common mental health conditions that co-occur with substance use disorder are depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders. Other frequently co-occurring mental health issues include schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD.

Common signs of depression

• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
• Loss of interest in everyday activities
• Inability to feel pleasure
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances
• Low energy levels
• Intense feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulty concentrating
• Anger, physical pain, and risky behavior (especially in men)

Common signs of anxiety

• Constant tension and worry
• Feeling restless or uneasy
• Irritability or being “on edge”
• Rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath
• Nausea, trembling, or dizziness
• Muscle tension or headaches
• Difficulty focusing
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)

Common sign of mania in bipolar disorder

• Intense feelings of euphoria or extreme irritability
• Unrealistic and grandiose beliefs
• Reduced need for sleep
• Elevated energy levels
• Rapid speech and racing thoughts
• Poor judgment and impulsive behavior
• Hyperactivity
• Anger or rage

What are the causes of dual diagnosis?

Although these issues frequently happen together, it doesn’t necessarily mean that one caused the other, even if one developed first. In fact, it can be difficult to determine which came first. 

Researchers believe there are 3 possible causes for dual diagnosis:

• Shared common risk factors
• Mental health disorders can lead to substance use disorders
• Substance use disorders can lead to mental health disorders

Shared common risk factors

Substance use disorders and mental health conditions share common risk factors, such as stress and trauma. Genetics may also contribute, as both mental health disorders and substance use issues often run in families.

Mental health disorders can lead to substance use disorders

If you have a mental health disorder, you might turn to alcohol or drugs to self-medicate, using them to cope or feel better. While these substances may provide temporary relief, they can worsen symptoms in the long run. Mental health disorders can also alter how your brain’s “reward” system functions, increasing the likelihood of developing an addiction.

Substance use disorders can lead to mental health disorders

Alcohol, drugs, and other substances can cause changes to your brain’s structure and function, increasing the likelihood of developing a mental health disorder.

What are dual diagnosis treatments?

If you have a dual diagnosis, it’s generally more effective to treat both conditions simultaneously rather than separately. You and your healthcare provider can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, considering factors such as your age, the substance(s) you’re misusing, and the specific mental disorder(s) you’re dealing with.

Here are some treatment approaches that healthcare providers may recommend for dual diagnosis:

• Detoxification
• Psychotherapy
• Medication
• Inpatient rehabilitation
• Support groups

Detoxification

The first step, often a significant challenge, is to stop using the substances and eliminate them from the body. Detox is typically done in an inpatient setting, where healthcare providers can closely monitor the patient and offer medication and support to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Psychotherapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is especially effective in helping to change unhealthy thought patterns that lead to substance use. Some individuals may require intensive therapy at first, but as they gain control over their symptoms and develop useful coping strategies, they may be able to gradually reduce the frequency of their sessions.

Medication

Medication not only helps manage withdrawal symptoms but can also reduce cravings for drugs and alcohol, as well as alleviate symptoms of mental health conditions.

Inpatient rehabilitation

If you’re struggling with substance dependence along with a mental health condition, a dual diagnosis treatment center may be beneficial. These centers provide both medical and mental health care, including medication, therapy, and ongoing support.

Support groups

Support groups can be incredibly helpful by providing the emotional and social support you need to stay sober. The people in these groups have faced similar struggles, and they can share their experiences, answer your questions, and offer practical advice for managing daily challenges.

How to cope with dual diagnosis?

Here are some strategies that may help in managing a dual diagnosis:

• Seek help: The first step is encouraging the person who is facing dual diagnosis to seek professional help. Finding a compassionate provider who listens and understands how both diagnoses affect their physical, emotional, and social well-being is crucial for a successful intervention.
• Actively participate in treatment: Talking to a professional and actively involving in treatment are essential for recovery. Engaging fully with the treatment plan of dual diagnosis neuropsychiatrist, and having support from both inside and outside the program, is highly beneficial.
• Focus on feeling better: Both mental health and substance use disorders can bring challenges for the individual and their loved ones. While a dual diagnosis may complicate treatment, with proper education, support, therapy, and medication, individuals can recover and lead fulfilling, productive lives.

Dual diagnosis treatment centers in the US

There are numerous dual-diagnosis treatment centers across the U.S. Here are a few examples:

Conclusion

Dealing with a substance use disorder can be difficult, and it becomes even more challenging with a dual diagnosis, as co-occurring disorders can intensify both conditions. It’s crucial to seek help, obtain an accurate diagnosis, and engage in treatment to begin the path toward feeling better.

Start your healing journey now with Revive Health Recovery!