More Information on Dual Diagnosis

Dual Diagnosis

The term ‘Dual Diagnosis’ is used to describe those people who are simultaneously suffering with a mental health related issue and an addiction disorder. It is often the case that the addictive behaviour (drugs, alcohol, eating disorder, gambling sex etc.) is used as a coping strategy for the mental health issue. Depression, acute anxiety, personality disorders, untreated trauma, schizophrenia and other presenting conditions are often hidden beneath a growing dependence on addictive substances and behaviours.

Assessment and Treatment of Dual Diagnosis

In order for a clear and accurate diagnosis to be made of the underlying mental issue it is first necessary for the addiction or addictive behaviour to abate. Alongside other mental health professionals, we, at Life Works, recognise the necessity of treating both disorders at the same time. The safe and controlled environment of the rehab, allows for the person to detox and begin the process of removing the chaos from their lives that is often the result of the drug or addictive behaviour. Once this has been achieved it is then possible to be more clear as to the root of the mental health issue and therefore establish which came first, the addiction or the mental health issue. At this point, our team of professionals are then able to focus more clearly on treating the underlying issues that have been the driving force behind the coping strategy of addiction.