Approximately half of those with a substance use disorder also have a mental health condition. This 'dual diagnosis' requires integrated treatment that addresses both issues simultaneously.
What Is Dual Diagnosis
Dual diagnosis (or co-occurring disorders) means having both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. These conditions interact and can worsen each other if not treated together.
Common Combinations
Frequently seen combinations include depression and alcohol use, anxiety disorders and benzodiazepines, PTSD and opioids or alcohol, bipolar disorder and stimulants or alcohol, and ADHD and various substances.
The Chicken or the Egg
It's often unclear which came first. Sometimes people use substances to self-medicate mental health symptoms. Other times, substance use triggers or worsens mental illness. The cause matters less than treating both.
Why Integrated Treatment Matters
Treating only addiction often leads to relapse because underlying mental health issues remain. Treating only mental health fails when substance use continues interfering with medications and therapy. Both must be addressed together.
Finding Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Look for programs that employ psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners, offer mental health assessments, provide medications for psychiatric conditions, integrate mental health and addiction therapy, and have experience with your specific conditions.
Recovery Is Possible
While dual diagnosis can complicate treatment, many people achieve lasting recovery with proper care. The key is finding comprehensive treatment that addresses all of your needs.