What is a Dual Diagnosis, and What Does it Mean to Have One?

Supporting a loved one who’s struggling with both a mental health disorder and addiction can be really tough. It’s like trying to juggle two heavy challenges at once, and it can feel overwhelming and isolating. 

One of the best things you can do is stay informed. Learn about both mental health disorders and addiction. This knowledge can help you understand what your loved one is going through, which can make it easier to offer support without feeling frustrated or helpless.

In this blog post, we’ll help you understand what a dual diagnosis means and provide examples to help you wrap your mind around it. We’ll also provide tips to help your loved one cope.

What is a Dual Diagnosis?

A dual diagnosis — also called a co-occurring disorder — is when someone has both a mental health issue and a substance use problem at the same time. These issues feed into each other, worsening the symptoms of both. 

Treating both conditions together is critical; if only one is addressed, it’s harder for the person to heal fully. Tackling both problems simultaneously gives someone a better chance at lasting recovery.

Dual Diagnosis Examples

Here are a few ways (but not the only ways) mental health issues and substance use problems can show up together:

• Depression and Alcohol Use: Someone with depression might use alcohol to numb feelings of sadness. 
• Anxiety and Prescription Drug Abuse: People struggling with anxiety may take prescription drugs, like benzodiazepines or opioids, to manage their symptoms. 
• Bipolar Disorder and Cocaine Use: During a manic episode, people with bipolar disorder might use stimulants like cocaine to keep their energy up. 
• PTSD and Marijuana Use: Someone with PTSD might use marijuana to cope with nightmares or flashbacks. 

​​What Causes Dual Diagnosis?

There’s no single cause for a dual diagnosis, but several factors can contribute to it. Genetics, environmental stress, and personal experiences all play a role. 

For some, mental health issues may develop first, leading them to use substances as a way to cope. For others, substance use might come first, triggering or worsening mental health symptoms. 

Trauma, personal history, and brain chemistry can influence how these conditions develop and interact. 

How to Cope with a Dual Diagnosis 

Coping with a dual diagnosis involves a mix of personal habits and professional treatment. Developing healthy habits while also seeking therapy can make a huge difference in managing both mental health and substance use challenges. Here are some ways to start coping effectively:

Build Healthy Routines

Establishing a daily routine can help bring structure and stability to life, especially when both mental health and substance use issues are at play. Simple habits like getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and scheduling regular exercise can make a big impact on your well-being. Having a routine can provide a sense of control, helping to reduce anxiety and create a positive foundation for recovery.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction

Mindfulness practices, like meditation and deep breathing, can help you stay grounded in the moment and manage stress. These techniques have been shown to reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation. 

Starting with just a few minutes each day can lead to better self-awareness and emotional resilience, making it easier to deal with difficult feelings without turning to substances.

Seek Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a proven therapy that helps people identify and challenge negative thoughts and behaviors. For those with a dual diagnosis, CBT can be especially helpful in addressing substance use and mental health issues. It teaches practical skills for coping with stress, managing triggers, and breaking unhealthy patterns. 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is another effective therapy for those with dual diagnoses, particularly if emotional regulation is a challenge. It focuses on building skills in areas like mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation. DBT is often used for people with mood disorders and substance abuse issues, as it helps to reduce impulsivity and improve coping skills in difficult situations.

Lean on Support Systems

Having a strong support system is crucial for anyone dealing with a dual diagnosis. This might include friends, family, support groups, or a therapist. Talking to others who understand what you’re going through can reduce feelings of isolation and offer practical advice for coping. Group therapy can also provide a safe space to share experiences and learn from others in similar situations.

Set Realistic Goals

Recovery from a dual diagnosis takes time, and setting small, achievable goals can help keep you motivated. Whether it’s reducing substance use or working through tough emotions, breaking down larger goals into manageable steps makes the process less overwhelming. Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and remember that setbacks are part of the journey.

Professional Treatment Program

For some people, the level of care required for a dual diagnosis may go beyond outpatient therapy. Inpatient and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) offer structured, professional treatment for those who need more support. 

Inpatient care involves staying at a treatment facility for a set period of time, where you receive around-the-clock care and treatment for both your mental health and substance use. IOPs offer a more flexible approach, where you attend therapy sessions several times a week while still living at home. 

Both options provide a higher level of care and are designed to address the unique challenges of a dual diagnosis. These programs are especially helpful if you’re struggling to manage both conditions on your own and need more focused treatment and supervision.

Take the Next Step Toward Lasting Recovery

If you or a loved one is facing addiction, it’s important to address both the addiction and any underlying mental health challenges. At Northpoint Omaha, our addiction and mental health treatment programs treat both conditions simultaneously, helping your loved one heal the root causes behind them.

Contact us today to learn how our dual diagnosis treatment helps build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.