What is dual diagnosis?
Dual Diagnosis is the co-occurring presence of both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition. This might include combinations like depression and alcohol use disorder, anxiety and prescription drug misuse, or PTSD and opioid addiction. These conditions often interact and reinforce one another, making professional treatment essential.
Which typically comes first – mental health concerns or substance use?
It varies from person to person. Some individuals use substances to cope with underlying mental health struggles, while others develop mental health symptoms as a result of prolonged substance use. The most important thing is recognizing the connection and ensuring both are addressed in treatment for long-term healing and recovery.
Can you treat mental health and substance use at the same time?
Absolutely. Treating both conditions simultaneously, rather than sequentially, improves outcomes and reduces the risk of relapse. At The Meadows, our programs are designed to treat both conditions at the same time, ensuring that you regain control over your life and find long-term recovery.
How do I know if I or a loved one is struggling with addiction and mental health simultaneously?
If you notice persistent emotional distress alongside substance use, such as mood swings, depression, anxiety, isolation, or impulsive behavior, it may be a dual diagnosis. Warning signs also include using substances to cope with emotions, needing more to achieve the same effect, or being unable to stop despite negative consequences. To learn more and see if your loved one could be struggling with a dual diagnosis, call our team at 928.260.3568.
What are the symptoms and signs of someone struggling with a dual diagnosis?
A proper evaluation is important to understand the full picture; however, common signs in those struggling with a dual diagnosis include:
Denial or secrecy about substance use
Changes in mood or behavior (irritability, anxiety, depression)
Difficulty managing daily responsibilities
Withdrawing from loved ones
Substance use that interferes with relationships or work
Trouble sleeping or concentrating
Risk-taking or impulsive behavior
What kind of treatment works best for dual diagnosis?
The most effective treatment for dual diagnosis can vary from person to person, but integrated care that addresses both the mental health condition and the substance use disorder is important. Inpatient, outpatient, and workshops are all different programs that can help in the recovery of dual diagnosis. To discuss and learn the best option for you or a loved one, call our team at 928.260.3568 or submit our online contact form.
How can I support a loved one struggling with their dual diagnosis?
Supporting a loved one struggling with dual diagnosis starts with listening and letting them know they are not alone. Educate yourself about what they are going through so you can better understand what they are experiencing. It is very important to also take care of your own well-being so you can offer consistent, compassionate support. Reach out to our team to discuss treatment and what options might be best for your loved one, at 928.260.3568.
Does The Meadows provide post-treatment recovery support?
At The Meadows we know that recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. The Meadows offers several different options, including step-down programs after inpatient treatment through our outpatient programs with locations across the country. Additionally, our alumni program, Onward, is open to any individual who has gone through one of our programs. Onward provides individuals with a supportive community committed to ongoing resources and empowerment, knowing that recovery is a lifelong journey.
Does treatment for dual diagnosis include family involvement and support?
Family or friend involvement is crucial to the healing process for dual diagnosis. In our programs, we offer a variety of resources for family members, including educational and communication tools, as well as, in some cases, onsite workshops. The decision to attend a family program is guided by several factors, including the length of stay, clinical appropriateness, patient desire, and others. Once admitted, our team members will work with the patient and their family to determine the next steps.
