The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found that 45% of people with addiction also had a co-occurring mental health issue. Individuals with serious mental illnesses are more likely to have substance addiction than those without mental health problems.
They also face a more difficult recovery journey as they cope with dual disorders.
What is a Dual Diagnosis?
When a person has both addiction and a mental illness, this is referred to as a dual diagnosis. A few conditions frequently appear in tandem with addiction.
These illnesses are most likely the root of the addiction.
The most common mental health disorders linked to substance abuse include:
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Borderline personality disorder
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia
Sometimes, only the addiction aspect is addressed, leaving the mental health disorder untreated. When this happens, relapse is most likely to occur. It is important to note that a holistic treatment facility will treat both disorders to achieve a successful recovery.
Dual Diagnosis Warning Signs
Individuals with dual diagnoses exhibit a wide range of symptoms. In general, the degree of the co-occurring disorder and the type of substance abuse will determine the symptoms. Here are the common symptoms of dual diagnosis:
- Sudden changes in general behavior
- Difficulty managing daily tasks and responsibilities
- Avoiding events or social activities
- Neglecting health and hygiene
- Cognitive impairments
- Refusal to seek or comply with treatment
- Mentions of thoughts of suicide or suicidal behaviors
- Erratic and impulsive behaviors
- Issues in finances
- Poor performance at school or work
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Some facilities only addressed the addiction but left the mental health illness aside. This kind of approach is counter-productive because mental health illnesses are mostly the root of addiction. And leaving it untreated will invite a relapse.
The best method for treating a patient with a dual diagnosis is a holistic approach that addresses every component of both conditions.
Skyward Treatment in Sugar Land, Texas, believes in a holistic approach to treating addiction. We consider all factors that cause addiction in our patients.
From this assessment, we develop a treatment plan that will target all the roots of their addiction. Most importantly, we ensure that our patient’s objectives are also our goals.
If you or your loved one is suffering from a dual diagnosis, call us, our team can help you reach the sobriety you’re longing for.