Patients suffering from a mental disorder along with an alcohol or drug problem have a condition described as a dual diagnosis, explains MedlinePlus. Substance abuse problems often occur with depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders and schizophrenia. The mental problem may lead to alcohol or drug abuse to temporarily relieve the mental disorder. At other times, the substance abuse problem leads to the mental disorder.
Time Frame
Both conditions must be treated when a person has a dual diagnosis, MedlinePlus states. Usually, the drug or alcohol problem is first dealt with through a detoxification process, in which a patient goes for a period of time without drugs or alcohol before beginning the rehabilitation process and therapy for the mental disorder.
Effects
Medical professionals can treat the conditions simultaneously, according to Mental Health America. However, substance abuse patients need to have their bodies detoxified of the drugs or alcohol before treatment that includes rehabilitation and counseling can begin. Detoxification takes place under medical supervision because of withdrawal symptoms that can cause cravings for the substance and a relapse in patients. Detoxification can take a few days to more than a week. Medication provided by medical professionals makes the process safer and less traumatic for the patient.
Identification
When the detoxification process is complete, it also helps physicians make a better diagnosis when an underlying mental problem exists. A thorough examination and history of the patient can uncover the particular mental illness. Dual treatment can begin following detoxification. Although doctors can treat each illness at the same time, the disorders often require separate treatment plans.
Considerations
Dual treatment includes rehabilitation for the drug or alcohol problem and therapy for the mental disorder, Mental Health America explains. Treatment for one illness is less effective than treating both illnesses, notes the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Each illness has the capability of making the other disorder worse. For example, drug use has only a temporary calming effect on depression or an anxiety disorder, but it can eventually deepen fears and depression. Untreated depression or anxiety can lead the patient back to alcohol or drugs.
Features
Treatment for drug or alcohol abuse may include counseling and recovery groups to help the patient live without the addictive substance. Patients learn how to deal with cravings and to start new lives without drugs or alcohol. Mental disorder treatment may include psychotherapy to understand the reasons for the mental disorder and to teach patients how to change patterns of thinking to produce positive, instead of negative, thoughts. Therapy can also help patients understand and avoid drug or alcohol abuse.
Benefits
Medication also works to help people with mental disorders, says the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Prescription drugs are administered carefully for people who have experienced drug or alcohol problems, but many medications are not habit-forming.
