Understanding Dual Diagnosis
Dual diagnosis means an individual might be coping with both substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. SUD is a treatable mental disorder that affects a person’s brain and behavior, leading to their inability to control their use of substances like legal or illegal drugs, alcohol, or medications. Similarly, individuals with mental health disorders may turn to substances as a way to cope.
Signs & Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis
Symptoms can differ based on the specific mental health condition and substance use disorder (SUD). Common signs of mental health disorders include:
- Changes in mood
- Increased anxiety or depression
- Difficulties with concentration
- Impulsivity
- Alterations in behavior or personality
Meanwhile, symptoms related to SUD may include:
- Cravings for substances
- Withdrawal symptoms during periods of abstinence
- Challenges in maintaining daily responsibilities
Risk Factors for Dual Diagnosis
Though people might have both a SUD and a mental disorder, that does not mean that one caused the other. Research suggests three possibilities that could explain why SUDs and other mental disorders may occur together:
- Common risk factors, such as genetic predisposition and environmental stress or trauma, may contribute to both SUDs and mental disorders within families.
- Mental disorders like anxiety, depression, or PTSD can lead to substance use as a form of self-medication. However, while some drugs may temporarily help with symptoms, they may make some worse over time. Additionally, brain changes in people with mental disorders may enhance the rewarding effects of substances.
- Substance use and SUDs can contribute to the development of other mental disorders by triggering changes in brain structure and function.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
When someone has a SUD and another mental health disorder, it is usually better to treat them at the same time rather than separately. Some common approaches to treatment include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Medication
It can be challenging to make an accurate diagnosis because some symptoms are the same for both disorders. At Vitalize, we use thorough assessment tools to provide tailored treatment that meets each person’s unique combination of disorders and symptoms. Reach out to schedule an appointment with our clinicians in Fresno.
Note: The information on this page is provided in part by the National Institute of Mental Health. For more up-to-date information, click here.
