Dual Diagnosis: Treating Addiction & Mental Health
When addiction co-occurs with mental health conditions, integrated treatment is essential. Learn what to look for in dual diagnosis programs.
Nearly half of people with substance use disorders also have a co-occurring mental health condition. When both issues exist, treating only one while ignoring the other almost always leads to failure. This is why dual diagnosis—or co-occurring disorder treatment—is so critical.
Common Co-Occurring Disorders
Depression
Often both causes and results from substance use; requires integrated treatment
Anxiety Disorders
Substances often used to self-medicate anxiety; withdrawal can worsen symptoms
PTSD
Trauma and addiction frequently co-occur; trauma-informed care essential
Bipolar Disorder
High rates of substance use; mood stabilization critical for recovery
ADHD
Impulsivity contributes to substance use; stimulant history complicates treatment
Personality Disorders
Especially borderline; requires specialized therapeutic approaches
Why Integrated Treatment Matters
"Treating addiction without addressing underlying mental health is like bailing water from a boat with a hole in it. You might stay afloat temporarily, but you haven't fixed the real problem."
When conditions are treated separately—or when one is ignored entirely—several problems arise:
- Untreated depression/anxiety drives relapse
- Medications may be inappropriately withheld due to addiction stigma
- Treatment teams don't communicate
- The person falls through gaps between systems
What Good Dual Diagnosis Treatment Looks Like
Comprehensive Assessment
Thorough psychiatric evaluation alongside addiction assessment. Both conditions properly diagnosed before treatment planning.
Integrated Treatment Team
Psychiatrists, therapists, and addiction counselors working together—not in silos. Regular team meetings and coordinated care plans.
Appropriate Medication Management
Psychiatric medications as needed—not withheld due to outdated "drug-free" ideologies. Careful attention to abuse potential.
Trauma-Informed Approach
Recognition that trauma often underlies both addiction and mental health issues. EMDR, somatic therapies, and other trauma treatments available.
Questions to Ask Programs
- "Do you have psychiatrists on staff or available?"
- "How do you assess for co-occurring disorders?"
- "What's your philosophy on psychiatric medication?"
- "Do addiction and mental health teams collaborate?"
- "What trauma therapies do you offer?"
Key Insight
If your loved one has struggled with both addiction and mental health—especially if previous treatment attempts have failed—insist on integrated dual diagnosis treatment. It may be the missing piece.
Dealing with co-occurring disorders?
Finding the Right Fit Is Critical
Not all programs handle dual diagnosis equally. I can help you find facilities with strong integrated treatment.