Dual diagnosis refers to the simultaneous presence of a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder. Co-morbidity and co-occurring disorder are other terms for dual diagnosis. A dual diagnosis is a combination of diagnoses, not a singular diagnosis.

Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues are examples of mental health illnesses. Alcohol, narcotics, and other addictive substances may all be a part of a substance use problem. The consequences of each one may be exacerbated when various diagnoses coexist. Substance use disorders can worsen and become more prevalent if mental health issues are not treated. Mental health issues may also worsen as your substance use increases. As you can see, a negative cycle is created.

What are the symptoms of dual diagnosis?

Both a substance abuse problem and a mental health problem have distinct signs. As a result, the signs of a dual diagnosis will vary depending on the substances and mental health conditions involved. Because there are so many possible dual diagnoses, symptoms can vary greatly.

Symptoms of a substance use disorder may include:

• Withdrawal from friends and relatives
• Having trouble staying focused
• Unexpected shifts in your behavior
• Pursuing dangerous activities
• Gaining a significant tolerance to the drug and/or experiencing withdrawal symptoms
• Feeling as though you need the drug to function

Symptoms of a mental health disorder may include:

Extreme shifts in mood
• Confusion
• Difficulties concentrating
• Incapable of working or studying
• Avoiding social engagements
• Ideas of suicide

Shared common risk factors

Both substance use problems and mental health issues might be influenced by certain risk factors. These risk elements could consist of the following:

Genetics: Both substance abuse disorders and mental health illnesses can run in families. Numerous genes may influence your likelihood of having either ailment, according to research.

Environmental factors: Stress and trauma from a person’s relational environment can result in dual diagnosis cases. They can support the emergence of a mental health illness or a substance use disorder.

How is dual diagnosis treated?

Treatment for both a substance abuse disorder and mental health issue will be provided concurrently as part of a dual diagnosis. Your Florida licensed mental health counselor will help you understand how each of your illnesses interacts with the others. This will enable you to choose the best course of treatment.

You must give up the addictive substance if you want to recover from both of your diagnoses. For many people, detoxification may be the first step. The best psychologist in Broward county will keep an eye on you during inpatient detoxification for up to a week. They'll guide you through the process of tapering off the drug and offer suggestions for easing withdrawal symptoms.

Your multiple-diagnosis treatment may involve behavioral therapy, medication, support groups, or inpatient care, depending on a number of variables.

Behavioral therapy
The following behavioral interventions have been proven effective in treating co-occurring disorders:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): You can learn coping mechanisms and how to alter unproductive thought patterns with cognitive behavioral therapy.

Dialectical behavioral treatment (DBT): DBT helps lessen self-destructive tendencies. Drug usage, cutting, and suicidal ideas or deeds are a few examples.

Medication
For any one or both of your illnesses, your Florida psychotherapist might recommend medication. Some medications can aid in reducing the symptoms of both illnesses in a dual diagnosis.

Support groups
By providing you with the emotional and social support you need to keep your sobriety, support groups can be very helpful. These groups are made up of people who have been in your position. Fellow sufferers can offer insights and respond to your inquiries. They may also provide advice on how to handle common difficulties.

In-patient care
A dual-diagnosis treatment facility may be helpful if you have both a mental health illness and a dependent habit of substance abuse. You will receive treatment for your physical and mental health, including medicine, counseling, and support, there.