How Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions Contribute to Addiction

The Effects of Dual Diagnosis on Recovery

Did you know that mental health conditions are one of the most common causes of addiction? In fact, about half of all people who struggle with addiction also have a mental health condition. This is known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders.

Keep reading as we discuss the effects of dual diagnosis and how it contributes to addiction.

What is a Co-Occurring Mental Health Condition?

A co-occurring mental health condition is a diagnosed mental illness that occurs alongside addiction. The most common co-occurring mental health conditions are anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, there are many other mental health conditions that can occur alongside addiction, such as:

• Bipolar disorder
• Borderline personality disorder
• Eating disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Schizophrenia

While any mental health condition can co-occur with addiction, some are more likely to occur together than others. For example, anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health conditions that people struggle with.

What Are the Effects of a Dual Diagnosis?

There are many effects of dual diagnosis, both on the individual struggling with addiction and on their loved ones. Some of the most common characteristics of those with both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder Include:

Isolation

When someone is struggling with both an addiction and a mental health condition, they may start to isolate themselves from friends and family. They may also stop participating in activities that they once enjoyed.

Loss of Employment

Addiction and mental health conditions can make it difficult to maintain gainful employment. This can lead to financial instability and further isolation.

Relationship Problems

Addiction and mental health conditions can put a strain on relationships. This is especially true if the individual is isolating themselves from their loved ones.

How Does a Mental Health Diagnosis Change Addiction Treatment?

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and has been diagnosed with a mental health condition, it’s important to seek treatment at a dual diagnosis treatment center. This type of treatment center is equipped to treat both the addiction and the mental health condition simultaneously.

Treating only the addiction without addressing the underlying mental health condition can lead to a relapse. This is because the mental health condition is still present and can trigger addictive behaviors.

On the other hand, treating only the mental health condition without addressing the addiction can also lead to a relapse. This is because the addiction is still present and can trigger symptoms of the mental health condition. It’s important to treat both the addiction and the mental health condition simultaneously to give yourself the best chance at recovery.

Dual Diagnosis Addiction Recovery in Florida

The Good Life Treatment Center offers dual diagnosis addiction treatment in Palm Beach, Florida. Our team of compassionate experts is here to help you through each step of your recovery journey. Please contact us today for more information.