Are You Suffering from a Dual Diagnosis?

Are You Suffering from a Dual Diagnosis?

Individuals who struggle with substance use disorders, as well as mental health disorders, are diagnosed as having co-occurring disorders.

This is also sometimes called a dual diagnosis or having dual disorders. There are many factors that will be considered before a co-occurring disorder is diagnosed, and there are specific and unique treatment programs that can effectively treat a dual diagnosis for all individuals. A dual diagnosis can directly impact your everyday life, and it’s important to understand that there are ways to effectively manage this disease and live a normal and healthy life. Banyan Treatment Center can help you recognize if you are suffering from a dual diagnosis, as well as the warning signs to look out for.

The signs and symptoms of a co-occurring disorder vary because each mental health disorder has its own unique symptoms, that when combined with an addiction they will produce different effects. However, anyone with a dual diagnosis has trouble managing their symptoms, and these effects can be life-threatening without the proper care. If you are suffering a drugs and alcohol addiction and notice that you are having trouble maintaining relationships as well as fulfilling daily responsibilities (such as school or work), there may be a larger issue at hand. Depression and anxiety are common mood disorders that when combined with an addiction can produce debilitating effects. If you are experiencing extreme mood swings or you have constant panic attacks, this may be considered a dual diagnosis if you are also addicted to drugs or alcohol. Other warning signs include impulsive behavior, suicidal thoughts, and the inability to stop abusing drugs or alcohol in high-risk situations. A dual diagnosis can put you through an emotional rollercoaster and poor decision making can be very prevalent.