What is Dual Diagnosis

People who have an addiction and disorder need equal and unique treatment for each. Through dual diagnosis, a therapist evaluates both conditions to determine the right type of care. Dual diagnosis seeks to address the underlying factors that led to the addiction. They may integrate a range of evidence based and holistic therapies that promote recovery and personal growth.

Addiction and mental health issues often go hand-in-hand as they feed into each other a form a symbiotic relationship. Both conditions can make it increasingly difficult for a person to overcome substance abuse or understand questions such as, what is dual diagnosis. For this reason, it’s important to help the individual manage both issues.

Common Mental Health Issues Associated with Addiction

What is dual diagnosis? It identifies the mental health issue associated with addiction.

A person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol may be unaware that they also have a mental disorder. They may be less likely to seek help if they are battling substance abuse. What’s worse is that the disorder may be what’s causing their lack of motivation to get better. 

Some of the most common mental disorders associated with addiction include:

• ADHD
• Bipolar disorder
• Borderline personality disorder
• Depression
• Anxiety disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Another common disorder linked to addiction is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In all instances, the disorder may be at the root of the addiction. Likewise, the addiction may be aggravating or intensifying the disorder. Both have an impact on brain function, mental outlook, mood, and behavior. 

Warning Signs of Co-Occurring Disorder

What is dual diagnosis? It seeks to discover the relationship between disorders and behaviors.

The signs of co-occurring disorders can vary from person to person. Symptoms depend on the disorder and the substance (or substances) being used. A co-occurring disorder can be identified by the following characteristics.

• Sudden changes in behavior
• Sudden changes in sleeping or eating
• Difficulty focusing or getting anything done
• Withdrawing from friends, family, or normal activities
• Neglecting self-care or hygiene
• Performing poorly at school or work

In a nutshell, a person’s entire demeanor shifts as their disorder or addiction progresses. Their behavior causes those around them to worry and wonder what is going on.

Self-Medicating: The Vicious Cycle of Addiction

Through dual diagnosis, a treatment specialist understands that addiction starts somewhere, and you may want to find the answer to what is dual diagnosis treatment in NJ. While it is classified as a disease, it is often a symptom of something deeper. If a therapist can identify the root problem, then they have a better understanding of why a person self-medicates. 

Clients often state that they drink or take drugs to ease the symptoms of their disorder (even if they didn’t know they had one). The form of self-medication creates a cycle of addiction. The only way to break the cycle is through dual diagnosis and extensive treatment and finding the answer to what is dual diagnosis treatment in NJ. 

Find the Answer to “What is Dual Diagnosis?” Today

What is dual diagnosis? Find out more at Victory Bay. We offer treatment for both addiction and mental health issues. To find out more about your treatment options, call us today at [Direct] for a consultation.