Coined in the USA in the ‘80s, Dual diagnosis is the abuse or misuse of addictive substances by someone who has an existing psychological or mental illness. In some cases, people struggling with dual diagnosis may experience personality disorders, which would complicate things even more for the individual and make it difficult to find help. However, with the right methods and with the supervision of a well-experienced specialist you can find help for the dual diagnosis.
On the other hand, it can be very difficult to make an assertive dual diagnosis. In general, substance abuse materializes in people the same way mental illness exhibits its symptoms. Therefore, you may not recognize the symptoms of substance abuse in a dual diagnosis patient, until it festers and becomes even more complicated to treat. The social, economic and emotional needs of people struggling with dual diagnosis problems are varied and complex. As such, substance abuse will only make things worse. It is often challenging to find help for people struggling with dual diagnosis problems. But the good news is that you can find help if you look in the right direction. Our expertise is in helping you find support for all kinds of addictions and abuse.
Alcohol and depression
Frequent or incessant consumption of alcohol can expose you to the detrimental effects of depression. Often, people who drink heavily develop symptoms that can translate to full-fledged depression if the problem festers. While you may not know this, frequent consumption of alcohol will inhibit the production of serotonin in your brain. This chemical is responsible for mood regulation. Hence, the feeling of depression people get after drinking alcohol heavily for a long time. Besides, evidence shows that people with depression and anxiety issues have a greater tendency to become heavy or problematic drinkers. While it is common for people struggling with anxiety to turn to alcohol for their condition, in many cases, anxiety results from frequent consumption of alcohol.
To avoid the potential consequences of dual diagnosis, you shouldn’t mix substance abuse with an underlying mental condition.
Treatment alternatives for dual diagnosis
While it is expected that you’ll be perturbed about your exposure to the potential dangers of a dual diagnosis. You shouldn’t stress. Help is available and we can help you navigate towards the right treatment program for you or your loved one. Of course, treatment for dual diagnosis poses some unique challenges, but facilities are specializing in providing help to people struggling with dual diagnosis problems. These specialist teams have the experience and expertise needed to achieve long-term recovery from dual diagnosis and with their support, you and your family can gain freedom from dual diagnosis.
Get help at the right time
While there is no wrong time to seek help for a dual diagnosis, getting help early can increase your chances of achieving long-term recovery. By connecting with our specialists, you can get the right help at the right time.
Time is of the essence when you or someone you love is dealing with a dual diagnosis. So make every moment count by connecting with an addiction specialist today.