People with co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse may have a hard time getting the treatment they need. This makes it vital for them to find a dual diagnosis program that can help them recover from both conditions.
Research has shown that co-occurring disorder increases rates of violence, incarceration, treatment non-compliance, and HIV risk. The national guidance on dual diagnosis (Department of Health, 2002a ) outlines good practice and provides a framework for service development.
Genetics
Some people are genetically predisposed to both mental health disorders and addiction. In addition, traumatic events or chronic stress can contribute to the development of both conditions. People with a genetic predisposition often develop these conditions at a younger age than others.
It is sometimes hard to tell which condition came first, as they tend to occur together. Some theories of why these two conditions occur together include changes in brain chemistry, the use of drugs or alcohol to mask or heighten symptoms and similar environmental triggers.
People with a dual diagnosis often face many social challenges. Their friends and family may not understand their struggle, which can lead to poorer support. These individuals can also be at higher risk for self-harm, which can include substance abuse, a variety of behaviors and thoughts that can lead to physical harm or even suicide. Behavioral therapy and medication are often used in treatment programs that specialize in treating co-occurring disorder.
Environment
People who struggle with a mental health condition like schizophrenia might abuse drugs to mask the symptoms and avoid reality. This self-medication can lead to addiction and make the underlying condition worse.
It’s important that treatment programs understand and acknowledge the possibility of co-occurring disorders. Medications might help ease symptoms, but it’s equally important that therapy or counseling takes place. In some cases, a combination of medication and group therapy can prove effective.
Many mental health services prioritize those in crisis, meaning that a person who struggles with both a mental illness and substance misuse might not get the support they need. The fact that the mental illness might be minor also contributes to this, as the problem might be seen as a side effect of their drug use.
Additionally, medications for a mental illness can take weeks or even months to become effective. During that time, it’s important that those in recovery have an alternative to drugs or alcohol, such as support groups or sober living options.
Symptoms
If a person has a mental illness and drug addiction, treatment should be comprehensive. Inpatient rehab facilities that specialize in both drug addiction and mental health are best. A dual diagnosis treatment plan should focus on the individual’s specific needs and include psychotherapy, family therapy and medications to address symptoms of both disorders.
The symptoms of a mental illness and a substance abuse problem can be very similar. Often, people use drugs as a way to self-medicate their mental health issues. They may try to relieve the symptoms of depression with drugs that have euphoric effects, for example. This can actually make the underlying condition worse.
Unfortunately, it is common for doctors to overlook signs of a co-occurring disorder. They may not be familiar with the screening tools that can help identify a person’s symptoms. Also, a person who is suffering from both a mental illness and a drug addiction can have difficulty relating to other people. This can also make it difficult to get treatment.
Treatment
It’s important to get proper treatment if you have both a mental health issue and addiction. It’s also known as co-occurring disorders. The conditions often reinforce each other and can worsen if only one is treated.
People who have mental health issues are more likely to develop an addiction. Genetic vulnerabilities, certain environmental triggers and the way in which substances impact the brain can lead to both a mental illness and drug addiction.
In addition to therapy, medication and other treatments, many facilities offer dual diagnosis rehab for those with co-occurring disorders. This is an inpatient program that provides care and support 24/7, including medical and psychological treatment. The goal is to help you live a happy and healthy life without the use of drugs or alcohol. Psychotherapy, such as motivational interviewing, is a key component of treatment. This technique helps you identify your values and goals and determine whether substance use aligns with those.
