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Addictions & Disorders » Dual Diagnosis

Dual Diagnosis

Many individuals with a diagnosis of drug abuse problems or addictions additionally have a mental disorder or behavioral issue. So, this is known as a dual diagnosis. The connection between the two is challenging, and the therapy for individuals with co-occurring drug addiction and mental disorder is more complex than the therapy for either problem alone. Further, it necessitates an integrated treatment approach that treats both diseases as interrelated mental health problems.

Certain groups with mental disorders are at a greater risk of substance abuse. According to recent scientific research, over 33 percent of all persons with mental diseases and roughly 50 percent of those with severe mental disorders (such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder) often suffer from drug misuse. In contrast, over 33 percent of alcohol abusers and over 50 percent of drug addicts suffer from mental diseases.

 

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Effects of Co-Occurring Disorders

Individuals who struggle with the existence of co-occurring disorders and are unable or unwilling to undergo dual diagnosis treatment may experience a variety of negative consequences. While the exact short- and long-term impacts will differ among individuals, the following are some examples:

  • deterioration of mental or emotional wellbeing
  • deterioration in physical health
  • Personal connection problems
  • Lack of work attendance and performance may lead to job loss and unemployment.
  • Financial hardship
  • Homelessness
  • Abuse of illicit drugs results in repercussions with law enforcement.
  • Isolation and retreat from society
  • initiation of self-harming behavior
  • Suicidal ideation
Dual-Diagnosis and Co-Occurring Disorders

Dual Diagnosis and Co-Occurring Disorders: Causes

As with chemical dependency and psychiatric illnesses in general, co-occurring disorders may be caused by both internal (genetic) and external (environmental) factors. The following factors can significantly increase the risk of a person suffering from co-occurring conditions.

A person's genetic predisposition might increase the likelihood of acquiring addictions or mental conditions. According to scientific research, genes account for 40-60% of a person's susceptibility to addiction.

Environmental factors, such as chronic stress, persistent worry, or a traumatic experience, might trigger a mental condition or addiction. Family background of substance misuse and addiction could also be an environmental factor since childhood growing up in homes where alcohol or other drugs are openly used may see such conduct as usual.

In addition, those who try drugs or alcohol early may acquire substance misuse or mental health problems. Also, drug abuse makes teenagers and young adults more susceptible to brain injury than adults.

Risk Factors:

  • a history of drug misuse or addiction in the family
  • a familial history of mental disorder
  • low self-esteem
  • men are more likely to seek treatment for dual diagnosis

If you or a loved one has a problem with co-occurring disorders, help is only a phone call away. The Recovery HQ Team is here to help. We can answer questions you have and share more information about treatment options. Give us a call today at 800-533-6166.

Treatment

Dual Diagnosis patients have no one-size-fits-all therapy. The link between mental illness and drug misuse is complex. Further, your recovery strategy must target your condition and addiction history to succeed. Also, your degree of treatment depends on your drug addiction and psychological health. Dual Diagnosis rehabilitation includes pharmacological therapy. Medications are commonly used to calm emotions, relieve anxiety, eliminate flashbacks, and avoid hallucinations. Further, Dual Diagnosis care professionals know the need to maintain medications through drug or alcohol recovery.

The Recovery HQ Team is here to help!

If you need any help with dual diagnosis or seek help for a loved one, the Recovery HQ Team is here to assist you through this difficult time. Please contact our dedicated team and we will do all we can to help.

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