Premium Essay

Dual Diagnosis Of Mental Illness

Submitted By
Words 252
Pages 2
Dual diagnosis between drug abuse and mental illness is very common. The two problems affect and interact with each other. The number of people diagnosed with a mental illness and substance went from 210,000 to 800,000 between the years of 1998-2003. (Druss MD, Bornemann, Fry-Johnson MD, McCombs PhD, Politzer, & Rust MD, 2006) Substance abuse is the most common and clinically important dual disorder among adults with severe mental illness. Studies show that fifty percent of people with mental illness also have a substance abuse problem. (Saisan, Smith, & Segal, 2010) And more than half the persons with a substance abuse diagnosis also have a diagnosable mental illness. (Saisan, Smith, & Segal, 2010). Clinicians believe that mental illness and

Similar Documents

Free Essay

Dual Diagnosis

...Dual Diagnosis Kimberly Holston CRIS 305-B05 Liberty University 02/22/2016 Dual Diagnosis There is an extremely difficult life path for a person the experiences substance and or alcohol abuse. That addiction journey can be riddled with anger, pain, loss, shame, anguish along with a host of many other agonizing and heart wrenching emotions. When the addicted person also carries a mental health disorder along this journey, it can become an even more treacherous and dangers path. These are indeed two very complex struggles for one human being. The combination of a person suffering an alcohol or substance abuse disorder and a mental illness disorder are identified has having a dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis has different causes, difficulty in trying to diagnose and difficult to treat and it affects many in our world today. Most importantly, a dual diagnosis is most difficult on the individual who suffers with the disease. Dual Diagnosis Definition and Types What does dual-diagnosis actually mean? A dual diagnosis disorder occurs when an individual is affected by both chemical dependency and an emotional or psychiatric illness. Both chemical dependency and psychiatric illness may affect an individual physically, psychologically, socially and spiritually (The Dual Diagnosis Recovery Book, 1993). The most common mental health issues that coincide with addictions are ADHD, anxiety, depressions, bi-polar, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders and PTSD...

Words: 1349 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Dual Diagnosis

...Dual Diagnosis Jana Hall Liberty University Abstract There is so much yet to be learned by researchers in regards to understanding the intertwining connections between mental illness and substance use disorders. This essay is barely scratching the surface in describing the complexity of the two. In order to know how to treat an individual who exhibits symptoms of both a substance use disorder and a mental illness, it must first be determined which came first, the mental illness that lead to the substance use disorder or the SUD which exacerbated the underlying mental illness. I’m sure you have heard the saying, ‘Which came first, the chicken or the egg?’ Well, this seems to be the dilemma for the experts in their respective fields of study in determining the most effective form of treatment for those who have been given a dual diagnosis. Unfortunately, individuals who have this diagnosis have become the norm in today’s day, rather than the exception. Dual Diagnosis It was widely believed at one time that substance use disorders and mental illness were seldom found in an individual. Since that time, it has been discovered, through epidemiological studies done on individuals who struggle with both mental illness and substance use disorder, that this is not true. A majority of those diagnosed with a mental illness also concurrently have a substance use disorder (Doweiko, 2015). ). Some of the mental illnesses that are challenging mental health professionals today...

Words: 1340 - Pages: 6

Free Essay

Co-Occurring Psychiatric Diagnosis Paper

...Co-Occurring Psychiatric Diagnosis Paper Grand Canyon University: PCN-438 June 15, 2014 Laura Pipoly On single stage, action considered for alcohol and drug addiction remained measured toward being distinct as of handling aimed at mental health illnesses, in addition to caution was conveyed at altered amenities by means of profoundly dissimilar salutary methods. And the results were successful, numerous individuals who had trouble with despair, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as additional severe psychiatric situations not once was offered nor established action on behalf of their substance abuse issues. Through the exact similar sign, several graduates of drug rehab accomplishments by means of co-occurring disorders frequently under no circumstances established acceptable treatment on behalf of their original mental health apprehensions. “Epidemiology is the study of the incidence, prevalence, and distribution of a disease in a population. In simple terms, this means that epidemiology. At its core, epidemiology is descriptive it tells us about the nature and extent of COD in the Nation, a State, or a community. This information is one critical component of policy, programmatic and clinical planning, and decision making. Epidemiology is a way to look at the relationship of the factors that can result in the expression of COD. The classic model for studying health problems is the epidemiologic triangle with sides that consist of...

Words: 1155 - Pages: 5

Premium Essay

Essay On Dual Diagnosis In Social Work

...limitations on individuals who consider themselves empathetic, diligent, and serving. For some social work professionals, human health is their ground for providing assistance to clients who may not be able to help themselves. In this field, social workers use communication, research, and networking skills to find needed resources that will ensure both mental and physical stability. Specifically, the United States Department of Health and Human Services quotes that mental health involves the psychological, emotional, and social well-being of an individual (“What is Mental Health”, n.d.). Therefore, it is important to note that properly treating someone with a mental illness goes beyond their mental faults; however, professionals should delve deeper into other realms that affect the mind and the body when treating clients, especially those who suffer with dual diagnosis. Defined, a dual diagnosis is when a client suffers from both a mental disorder and an addiction (“Important Statistics on Dual Diagnosis”, 2017). About four million people suffered from dual diagnosis in the past year alone (“Important Statistics on Dual Diagnosis”, 2017). This statistic brings about...

Words: 1557 - Pages: 7

Premium Essay

Dual Diagnosis Paper

...from a mental disorder in the country. Of these 17.5 million, approximately 4 million likewise suffer from an addiction to alcohol and/or drugs. Over the past few years, the number of individuals seeking treatment for a dual diagnosis has risen by four percent, yet more than half of individuals struggling with this issue have never sought help. They may seek treatment for the addiction or the mental health issue, but not both. Recovery In Motion (recoveryinmotion.com) would like to change this.  "Recovery is dependent on a person seeking treatment for both their mental health issue and their addiction. When one is neglected, the patient is more likely to relapse. The mentally ill may return to drugs or alcohol to seek relief from their psychological issue if it is not addressed when symptoms appear in the future. They self medicate in this situation to obtain the relief they desire. In addition, the addict may not be aware that he or she has a mental health issue and will appear to overcome the addiction only to return to the substance of choice. When both issues are addressed, this becomes less likely," Nick Jones, spokesperson for Recovery In Motion (www.recoveryinmotion.com), explains.  Dual diagnosis goes by many other names....

Words: 677 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Mental Health and Illness

...Mental health problems are extremely frequent during the recovery process. When people suffer from substance abuse and mental health disorders, we describe them as having a dual diagnosis disorder. Many people in recovery struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety before, during and after rehab. Additionally, many people who have a dual diagnosis struggle with bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia and other personality disorders. If you find yourself fighting behavioral health issues at any stage of your recovery process, you are not alone. Understanding Dual Diagnosis and Mental Health Problems in Recovery For many people with major behavioral health disorders, self-medication leads to addiction. Frequently, the symptoms of mental health disorders are uncomfortable and alarming, particularly for people who have bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or other personality disorders. Drinking or using drugs can be a way of coping and calming down symptoms such as voices, hallucinations or delusions. In fact, it is common for people to be diagnosed with mental health problems when they are in recovery for substance abuse. Qualified behavioral health professionals are able to help patients understand their illness and learn healthy coping mechanism that can reduce symptoms. For people with dual diagnosis, recovery can be extremely challenging. As a result, it is extremely important to remain in treatment and build a strong support group and relapse prevention...

Words: 590 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

A Study of Co-Morbidity in Mental Retardation

...Abstract : Mental retardation (MR) is a condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind, characterized by impairment of skills (cognitive, language, motor and social) manifested during the developmental period, which contribute to overall level of intelligence. Intellectual Disability is a more precise term (used in DSM-V). MR is an etiological factor for development of various co-morbidities, which account for substantial burden of the disease. However, the extent of this co-occurrence varies substantially between reports. Aim: To study the prevalence of psychiatric and medical comorbidity, among different degrees of Mental Retardation. Settings and Design: This is a cross-sectional, singlecentered study conducted at the out patient department of Psychiatry, Maharajah’s Institute Of Medical Sciences. Material & Methods : Sixty-three persons, who came for disability certification, were diagnosed with MR as per ICD-10 criteria, The Wechsler’s Adult Intelligence Scale – IV and The Developmental Screening Test for IQ and Vineland Social Maturity Scale for SQ assessment were used. Psychiatric and medical co-morbidities were diagnosed, using clinical examination, laboratory investigation, the ICD-10 Diagnostic criteria and CHA-PAS SCALE. Statistical Analysis : The statistical analysis was done by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 13.0 version. Frequency, percentages and chi square analysis were used to analyze the data. Result : Out of...

Words: 1433 - Pages: 6

Free Essay

Psychology Today

...different psychological problems. The website is for the magazine, “Psychology Today,” and offers the same articles in the magazine and additional resources related to Psychology. Psychology Today covers all aspects of human behavior and mental health. The specific link I used (as shown above) is specific to co-occurring disorders. It allows users to explore the definition, symptoms, causes and treatments. It defines Co-Occurring Disorders at the top of the page stating, “Formerly known as dual diagnosis or dual disorder, co-occurring disorders describe the presence of two or more disorders at the same time. For example, a person may suffer substance abuse as well as bipolar disorder.” I think that statement is a little misleading and would better be represented by stating “…co-occurring disorders describe the presence of one or more disorders and substance abuse.” That definition implies co-occurring disorders could be something like depression and anxiety, in which case it should actually be described as co-morbid. However, within the first few paragraphs of the definition page it then states, “Clients with co-occurring disorders (COD) have one or more disorders relating to the use of alcohol and/or other drugs of abuse as well as one or more mental disorders.” One interesting thing I noticed on this website is they use the term MICA, which represents Mentally Ill Chemical Abusers; I’ve never heard that term before. The website states that cause of Co-Occuring Disorders...

Words: 2150 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Dual Diagnosis

...Dual Diagnosis Lloyd Bell Liberty University Lynchburg That give me an idea of how many people have found this document helpful. Thanks Dual Diagnosis Those who suffer from a concurrent mental illness and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) are often categorized as dual diagnosed (Doweiko, 2015, p. 317). While this is not a hard concept to understand it can be very difficult to assess, properly diagnose, and treat such an individual.   Scalise (n.d) points out that it is crucial to properly assess the client because the presenting problem may be different from the underlying issue. This is where concurrent disorders can “throw a monkey wrench” in the process of assessing risk and formulating a treatment plan. Since it can be difficult to distinguish which symptoms are from which condition the professional must be careful to gather as much background information as possible to begin assessment. However, with those suffering from symptoms and withdrawals due to SUDs it could take as long as 2-8 weeks to get an accurate diagnostic picture (Doweiko, 2015). Addictive Cycle The addictive cycle is a vicious cycle that has stages which include experimentation, occasional use, regular use and ultimately dependence ( Scalise, n.d). One of the greatest factors mentioned by Scalise (n.d) that leads to perpetuating this cycle is unmet needs. In the case of those who suffer from a dual diagnosis it is crucial to understand that the underlying needs may...

Words: 714 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Social Security Benefits

...Can alcoholics and drug addicts really get Social Security disability benefits? Not anymore. There never were all that many people getting Social Security disability benefits on account of alcoholism or drug addiction, but Congress has now prohibited Social Security from paying disability benefits on the basis of alcoholism or drug addiction. However, alcoholics and drug addicts have heart attacks, get cancer or get sick in other ways just like everyone else. Alcoholics and drug addicts who become disabled apart from their alcoholism or drug addiction can become eligible for Social Security disability benefits. Abstract Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD or SSDI) is a payroll tax-funded, federal insurance program of the United States government. It is managed by the Social Security Administration and is designed to provide income supplements to people who are physically restricted in their ability to be employed because of a notable disability, usually a physical disability. SSD can be supplied on either a temporary or permanent basis, usually directly correlated to whether the person's disability is temporary or permanent There are many different types of disablities that are covered under SSDI. However, one area that has been under heavy debate is whether or not substance abuse should be considered a disablity and funded by SSDI. This study examined symptom severity and level of functioning in recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits...

Words: 1299 - Pages: 6

Free Essay

Etiologies of Adhd and Substance Abuse

...Etiologies of ADHD and Substance Use Disorders Etiologies of ADHD and Substance Use Disorders Approximately half of all individuals with mental disorders also have substance abuse issues (Dual Diagnosis, 2007). Likewise, it is estimated that up to 45% of adults with ADHD have a lifetime diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence (Wilens, 2006). Consequently, individuals with addictions who are also diagnosed with ADHD, characteristically have a extra severe course of addiction and greater difficulties in recovery. It is difficult to predict with any certainty which drinker or recreational drug user will develop serious substance abuse issues. It is also unfeasible to predict whose problems are situational and short-lived and whose will remain chronic and progressive. However, there are specific factors and influences that increase a person’s chance of developing a substance use disorder (SUD). Interplay between genetic familial predisposition and lifestyle manipulates the development of an SUD just as it may manipulate hypertension. Many clinicians believe that individuals may inherit a genetic susceptibility to substance abuse that may be fueled by a combination of family and social norms, traumatic events, pharmacodynamic effects, or environmental factors. At the same time, people with these inherent genetics may develop problems as a response to external stresses or internal discomfort if they continue using alcohol or other drugs over time (NAMI, 2011)...

Words: 653 - Pages: 3

Free Essay

Medication and Dual-Diagnosis

...The Complicated Relationship between Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Amber M. Paradise Kaplan University Abstract This paper explores four articles about research on the complicated relationship between mental health and substance use disorders. I focused my research on the relationship between depression, including post-partum, and alcoholism. In this paper, I will explain why my client, Rhonda is considered dually diagnosed, I will explain the health problems that can occur from using alcohol and the effects alcohol has on the brain and body, I will explain how alcohol impacts depression, and last, I will explain the specific problems that exist in treating the dually diagnosed individual. An individual who has any combination of a mental disorder (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder) and addiction (drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling) is considered to be dual diagnosed. (Foundations Recovery Network, 1995) In one article, Paljärvi (2009) states “experimental studies have found that alcohol intoxication can produce even severe depressive symptoms during heavy drinking episodes.” Becker (2012) states in his article, “Alcohol has anxiety-reducing properties and can relieve stress, while at the same time acting as a stressor and activating the bodies stress response systems.” According to Evans and Sullivan (2001), individuals with a history of alcohol dependence, especially those early in recovery and those who are older, show significant cognitive impairments...

Words: 2258 - Pages: 10

Premium Essay

Are People with Mental Issues at Increased Risk of Committing Violence

...Are people with mental health problems at increased risk of committing violence? | Holly ButlerCCJ10January 27, 2015 | Abstract There has been significant interest in Australia and indeed the world as to whether people with a mental illness are at increased risk of violence. In particular, the diagnosing of current or even future offenders has offered a wide insight not only into mental illness as a stand-alone but to whether it is a major trigger in acts of violence. Offenders with mental illness have attracted substantial attention over the recent years, given their prevalence and poor outcomes. A number of interventions have been developed for this population (e.g., mental health courts) and they share an emphasis on one component as the foundation of the problem: mental illness. Focusing soley on psychiatric services inadequately tie in with the policy goal of reducing recidivism. The validity of mental illness being linked t criminal behavior points towards moderated arbitration techniques and the effect of mental illness on other “recidivism” is to some extent interceded by system impartiality and shame. The recognition of mental illness being tied to offenders been identified as a feasible tool to decrease the escalating level of offending amongst juveniles, and indeed has been implemented in varying forms as a diversion away from the criminal justice system. In this essay, the notion of people with mental health problems are not at increased risk of committing...

Words: 2058 - Pages: 9

Premium Essay

Bipolar Disorder

...a severe mental condition that causes a person to have emotions that are extremely intense and unpredictable. Individuals with this condition will change from ultimate cheerfulness, energy, and clarity to complete anguish, fatigue, and agitation. Suffering from this condition could lead to suicide. The individual can experience moods that are highly elevated that can last a minimum of a week and make the person unable to function. This mood change is known as manic or mania. When the individual experiences these elevated changes they may not necessarily become depressed (American Psychological Association, 2013). Understanding the history of bipolar disorder may help one to understand the signs, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments. As early as the 1st Century, Aretaeus of Cappadocia took the time to keep track of the symptoms of the disorder. He had made note of the relationship between depression and mania that went unnoticed for centuries. The Ancient Greeks and Romans began to use the terms “mania” and “melancholia”. Religious views pointed out that individuals with the disorder were thought to be possessed, so they were often put to death. Robert Burton wrote a book entitled The Anatomy of Melancholy in the 17th Century. The book addressed treatment for melancholy, the effects of depression, and a commentary of depression. Theophilus Bonet published Sepuchretum later in that century. He completed thousands of autopsies and linked mania and melancholy to an illness called manico-melancolicus...

Words: 1432 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Alcohol Case Study

...Alchoholism Case Study This case study took place at an Alcohol and Addiction Counselling Practice. This service offers people with drug or alcohol related problems an opportunity to increase their quality of life by: providing advice and information, one-to-one counselling, a gender specific alcohol and drug user group, a support group for people who have stopped drinking or using drugs and a family and friends support group. The first interview with Claire took place in October 2000. Her psychiatrist referred Claire to our practice. His first contact with Claire was in August of the same year. She was referred to him by a hospital that had treated her for an attempted suicide. Although the psychiatrist is treating Claire for severe depression it has become apparent to him that she has a problem with alcohol. She is 30 years old and was divorced two years ago. She has no children. There is no partner in her life now or since her divorce and she lives in a rented one bed roomed house. She is unemployed and is currently in receipt of Income Support. Claire has requested a counselling programme that will help her to abstain from alcohol. She has not drunk any alcohol for two weeks prior to her appointment at this service, but she is on prescribed medication: tranquillisers and anti-depressants for depression. The main objective of this interview is to gather information in order to assess which of our services will best benefit Claire to aid her with abstinence from...

Words: 2142 - Pages: 9