Dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of both substance abuse or addiction and a mental health disorder. There are many different mental health disorders that can co-occur with substance abuse, and these are collectively referred to as common dual diagnosis disorders. Here are ten common dual diagnosis disorders, along with an overview of their symptoms and potential treatment options.
Depression and Substance Abuse: Depression is a common mental health disorder that can co-occur with substance abuse. Symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem. Individuals with depression may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with their symptoms. Treatment for co-occurring depression and substance abuse may involve medication, therapy, and support groups.
Anxiety and Substance Abuse: Anxiety is another common mental health disorder that can co-occur with substance abuse. Symptoms of anxiety include excessive worry, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. Individuals with anxiety may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of reducing their symptoms. Treatment for co-occurring anxiety and substance abuse may involve medication, therapy, and stress-management techniques.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Abuse: PTSD is a mental health disorder that can occur after experiencing a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance of triggers. Individuals with PTSD may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with their symptoms. Treatment for co-occurring PTSD and substance abuse may involve therapy, medication, and trauma-focused interventions.
Bipolar Disorder and Substance Abuse: Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder that is characterized by extreme mood swings. Individuals with bipolar disorder may experience periods of intense energy and euphoria (mania) as well as periods of extreme sadness and hopelessness (depression). Substance abuse can be a way of self-medicating for individuals with bipolar disorder. Treatment for co-occurring bipolar disorder and substance abuse may involve medication, therapy, and support groups.
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Substance Abuse: BPD is a mental health disorder that is characterized by unstable moods, self-image, and relationships. Individuals with BPD may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with their symptoms. Treatment for co-occurring BPD and substance abuse may involve medication, therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Substance Abuse: ADHD is a mental health disorder that is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with their symptoms. Treatment for co-occurring ADHD and substance abuse may involve medication, therapy, and cognitive-behavioral interventions.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Substance Abuse: OCD is a mental health disorder that is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Individuals with OCD may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with their symptoms.
