What Is a Dual Diagnosis?

Addiction doesn’t affect everyone in the same way. There are many reasons behind the motivation to abuse drugs and alcohol. While no one expects to develop a dependency, people with mental health disorders are more likely to have a substance abuse problem. Because they’re coping with more than one problem, they require specialized treatment. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is a dual diagnosis?”, you’ll see that it often relates to a combination of these issues.

Dual diagnosis, also known as having a co-occurring disorder, is the term addiction treatment experts use when a person develops an addiction and mental health disorder at the same time.

It’s not always clear which comes first: addiction or mental health issues. However, this simply depends on the person.

For example, someone who’s suffered a serious trauma may have PTSD. Therefore, they might self-medicate with alcohol to cope with negative emotions or numb painful memories. As alcohol dependency progresses into addiction, they’re now dealing with two mental illnesses instead of one.

On the other hand, a person with a heroin addiction could fall into clinical depression because of the issues surrounding their drug abuse.

While it may not be clear which problem came first, what is clear is that people with a dual diagnosis need simultaneous treatment. Without this, maintaining sobriety becomes more difficult, and thus, relapse is more likely.

It’s imperative that those with co-occurring disorders undergo addiction treatment and mental health counseling at the same time.

If a rehab facility only treats the substance abuse disorder, a person can easily fall back into depression within a short period of time. For example, people often relapse to cope with their unresolved negative emotions.

Likewise, if a person seeks treatment solely for trauma or another disorder and doesn’t receive intervention for their drug and alcohol dependency, maintaining recovery becomes more difficult.

Thus, qualified treatment centers perform thorough assessments to avoid misdiagnosis. Trained professionals know what to look for in these particular cases. This is where Hawaii Island Recovery can make a difference for those struggling with co-occurring disorders.

At our facility, in tranquil Kailua-Kona, Hawaii offers a variety of comprehensive programs for healing the mind, body, and soul. Our treatment center is a supportive and welcoming environment for men and women wanting to escape the bonds of addiction. With our help, you’ll become a happier, healthier, sober you.

We provide progressive treatment for clients with co-occurring disorders,
including:

Whether or not you know how to answer, “What is a dual diagnosis?”, Hawaii Island Recovery can help. Take a step toward your positive future by calling us today at 866-390-5070. We’ll help you overcome addiction and reach true recovery.