It has been estimated that 38% of the 20.3 million adults who consume substances also suffer from a mental health condition. Similarly, about 18% of people already suffering from mental health conditions abuse substances. This shows that the need for dual diagnosis among almost every patient is a must.
Here’s a blog mentioning some of the common dual diagnoses and how can they be treated safely.
Most Common Dual Diagnosis
While dual diagnosis can happen due to any mental illness and substance abuse, there are a few combinations that are commonly diagnosed. Those are:
- Alcoholism and anti-social personality disorder
People suffering from ASPD often resort to alcohol to balance their mental condition. The same situation can also happen in reverse where the ASPD condition is intensified due to alcohol.
- Marijuana abuse and schizophrenia
Both the disease and the substance have similar effects on an individual’s brain. They experience psychotic symptoms in both cases. Thus, it is often observed that people abusing marijuana can develop schizophrenia or vice versa.
- Cocaine addiction and anxiety disorders
Cocaine users believe that the substance is helping them to calm down. Whereas, the reality is the opposite. The substance has the potential to increase energy levels which in turn can develop anxiety issues. Thus, matters can be worse if cocaine is consumed to overcome anxiety.
- Opioids addiction and PTSD
Opioids are often chosen as a medicine to overcome the effects of PTSD. however, not everyone takes it as per the prescription and ends up suffering from severe PTSD symptoms.
- Heroin addiction and depression
People consume heroin to overcome depressing thoughts and emotions. But what they are actually doing is giving more spark to the already existing depression.
Reasons behind Co-Occurring Disorders
Apart from self-medication, co-occurring disorders can happen due to:
- Genetics
- Biological build-up
- Past trauma
- Environment
Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis
Following are the symptoms of dual diagnosis.
- Altered sleeping and eating patterns
- Losing interest in favorite hobbies
- Mood swings
- Frequent paranoia
- Difficulty in thinking and focusing
- Unable to recognize changes in behavior and personality
- Increased irritability
The list goes on to include symptoms like suicidal thoughts. Thus, to prevent such actions, it is better to seek treatment on time.
Dual Diagnosis at Skyward Treatment
Skyward Treatment offers the most reliable dual diagnosis in Houston, Texas. One undergoes the following treatment process:
- Evaluation
- Detox
- Rehab
- Aftercare
Call us now to know more about dual diagnosis and other treatments.