Are You Struggling with a Dual Diagnosis?

If you're addicted to drugs or alcohol, you might also be dealing with a mental health disorder. This is known as a dual diagnosis, and it's surprisingly common. In fact, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 7.9 million American adults suffer from a dual diagnosis. 

Are You Struggling with a Dual Diagnosis?
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For many people, struggling with a dual diagnosis can feel like a never-ending battle. A dual diagnosis refers to a mental health condition and a substance abuse disorder that occur simultaneously. This can make treatment difficult, as both disorders need to be addressed in order to achieve lasting recovery. 

Many people with a dual diagnosis find themselves caught in a cycle of using substances to self-medicate their mental health symptoms, only to end up feeling worse. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. However, it is important to remember that treatment is available and recovery is possible.

If you're not sure whether or not you might have a dual diagnosis, there are some signs and symptoms to look out for. Keep reading to learn more.

Signs and Symptoms of a Dual Diagnosis 

There are certain signs and symptoms that may indicate that you have a dual diagnosis. These can include: 

Changes in sleep patterns: If you find yourself drinking or using drugs more frequently, you might start to notice changes in your sleep patterns. For example, you might drink or use before bed in order to help you fall asleep. Or, you might find yourself waking up in the middle of the night and being unable to go back to sleep. either way, changes in your sleep habits can be an indication that something is wrong. 

Mood swings: Feeling irritable or anxious one minute and then happy and euphoric the next? That could be a sign of a mental health disorder such as bipolar disorder. If you find yourself experiencing extreme mood swings, it's important to reach out for help. 

Change in eating habits: Have you noticed that you're eating more or less than usual? An increase or decrease in appetite can also be a sign of a mental health problem. For example, someone with anorexia might stop eating entirely, while someone with depression might comfort themselves with food. 

Isolation: If you've been isolating yourself from friends and family members, that's another potential sign that something is wrong. When we're struggling with addiction or mental illness, it's often easier to just stay home by ourselves rather than face other people. However, social isolation can actually make our problems worse. 

Find Help for Your Dual Diagnosis

If you think you might be struggling with a dual diagnosis, it's important to reach out for help right away. Remember that if you’re struggling with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder, it’s important to have both treated.

A professional treatment center will be able to provide you with the care and support that you need to heal both your addiction and your mental health disorder. Don't wait—reach out today.