Dual diagnosis is a term that refers to a phenomenon that is characterized by an individual experiencing both a mental health disorder and substance use disorder concurrently. In many cases, individuals who are living with the negative symptoms of mental health disorders attempt to treat these symptoms on their own by using the numbing effects of drugs and alcohol. However, this only works for so long and eventually leads to a development of dependence and eventually addiction. For individuals struggling with this experience, dual diagnosis treatment is available. But, knowing more about dual diagnosis and the treatment process can help people who are living with dual diagnosis better understand what to expect during their time in treatment.
Knowing more about dual diagnosis statistics can help people who may be living with this issue better understand that they need help and that they’re not alone. Some statistics regarding dual diagnosis include:
Being able to recognize some of the symptoms of mental health issues can help people living with concurring mental health issues understand that it’s time to get help. Not everyone experiences the same mental health symptoms, but identifying some of the symptoms can point to a potential mental health condition in a person’s life. Some examples of mental health disorder symptoms may include:
While mental health issues are one aspect of dual diagnosis, substance use disorders are another. It’s important for people who are living with substance use disorders to be able to identify when they are struggling with addiction, as many people may think that they are in control of their habit. However, getting help for a mental health issue isn’t enough when a person also struggles with addiction – it’s necessary to have a treatment approach that addresses both aspects of dual diagnosis.
Some of the most common symptoms of substance use disorders may include:
If you are a young adult or you love a young adult who is potentially struggling with comorbid mental health issues and substance use disorders, help is available. Treatments that are geared toward helping people dealing with both substance abuse and mental health issues are effective in helping people stay sober and manage symptoms of mental health issues. For example, services provided by Yellowbrick are geared toward the needs of young adults struggling with these issues. Find out more about how we help young adults who are emerging into adulthood with various mental health disorders in Evanston, IL on our website.
Yellowbrick collaborates with adolescents and emerging adults, ages 16-30's, their families and participating professionals toward the development and implementation of a strategic “Life Plan.” An integrative, multi-specialty consultation clarifies strengths, limitations, and risks, and defines motivations, goals and choices.
A mental health condition that’s characterized by intense shifts in mood including both manic and depressive episodes.
People living with Major Depressive Disorder, or MDD, experience episodes of depression and sadness that are debilitating to daily life.
Those living with anxiety disorders experience high levels of anxiety and stress that interfere negatively with daily life.
A mental health issue in which a person’s cognitive function is impaired, resulting in symptoms like experiencing challenges with conducting speech, reading and writing, and behavior.
Mental health disorders that negatively affect a person’s behaviors, thought patterns, and function. People diagnosed with these disorders experience challenges with managing relationships and understanding various situations.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition that people can develop as a result of experiencing traumatic situations, characterized by symptoms including flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and more.
A mental health condition that is characterized by specific symptoms of forgetfulness and lack of concentration, which makes it challenging to complete necessary tasks.
Mental health conditions that interfere with a person’s eating habits, thought patterns, and behaviors in negative ways.
A mental health disorder diagnosable with the DSM-5 that is characterized by both obsessions and compulsive behaviors.