People who are diagnosed with mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders have a dual diagnosis. For example, someone with a diagnosis of major depression and alcohol abuse has a dual diagnosis.
Significance
According to Mental Health America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, "37 percent of alcohol abusers and 53 percent of drug abusers also have at least one serious mental illness."
Time Frame
Many people wonder if the substance abuse or mental illness came first. It can happen both ways. Someone suffering from depression could turn to alcohol to cope, and someone who abuses alcohol can develop depression due to losing his job and family.
Consequences
When someone suffers from a dual diagnosis, her family, social life, job and school performance all suffer.
Medication and Treatment
People struggling with dual diagnoses are more likely to stop taking their medication for mental health issues and are less likely to respond to treatment than someone who has a substance abuse or mental health disorder.
Recovery
The best method for recovery is getting treatment for both the substance abuse and mental health issues at the same time. Many therapists and treatment centers are equipped to treat both.
