Dual Diagnosis Defined

Dual diagnosis is a term used to describe a condition in one or more psychiatric illness are present, along with the presence of substance abuse. Dual diagnosis is not the same as co-occurring disorders, which may/may not have the presence of substance abuse, combined with psychiatric disorders. Dual diagnosis is common among drug and/or alcohol addicts because addiction is usually a result of deeper emotional problems.

Dual diagnoses, also called co-morbidities, concurrent disorders, or dual disorders, is a condition used to describe individuals who are suffering from one or more psychological or mental issues. This condition is usually associated with drug or alcohol dependence and requires serious therapy, or the condition may progressively worsen.

According to Dual Recovery Anonymous, dual disorder uses "dual diagnosis" to refer to a case when an individual has two separate but very interrelated diagnoses:

• Mental disorder
• Substance abuse

Results of this condition include inability to do physical activities and inability to think clearly. This condition makes a person incapable of taking care of himself and of interacting with others.

Depression is the most common mental illness associated with substance abuse. Symptoms of depression may include:

• Feeling sad
• Decrease in appetite and signs of insomnia
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Pessimism
• Constant exhaustion and tiredness
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
• Unable to socialize and to enjoy things
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Treatment

People suffering from dual diagnosis should get help immediately. Seeking medical help involves talking to a therapist to address the emotional and psychological issues. A patient might also have to take medications to help solve substance abuse and to clear your system from these harmful drugs. Recovery and counseling sessions are essential to make the treatment permanent and to make sure that the condition does not recur.

Make sure to look for a dual diagnosis treatment center that offers a holistic healing approach that cures not only physical but also emotional and psychological conditions. Before taking any medication, be sure to ask for a second opinion so you know the possible side effects of these drugs.

If you are suffering from dual diagnosis, then you should go to Miramar Recovery Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center, which offers recovery programs for persons suffering from dual diagnosis. The center approaches a holistic treatment program to ensure permanence, tackling deep seated issues through counseling and group therapy. They also have spiritual programs and counseling sessions.