Dual Diagnosis Summary A person with dual diagnosis has both a mental disorder and an alcohol or drug problem. These conditions occur together frequently. In particular, alcohol and drug problems tend to occur with Depression Anxiety disorders Schizophrenia Personality disorders Sometimes the mental problem occurs first. This can lead people to use alcohol or drugs that make them feel better temporarily. Sometimes the substance abuse occurs first. Over time, that can lead to emotional and mental problems. Someone with a dual diagnosis must treat both conditions. For the treatment to be effective, the person needs to stop using alcohol or drugs. Treatments may include behavioral therapy, medicines, and support groups. NIH: National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institute on Drug Abuse Resources Alcohol Abuse and Other Psychiatric Disorders National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Bipolar Disorder and Alcoholism: Are They Related? Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research Co-Occurring Disorders Mental Health America Comorbidity National Institute on Drug Abuse Dual Diagnosis: Substance Abuse and Mental Illness NAMI Mental Health Treatment Program Locator Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Should You Talk to Someone About a Drug, Alcohol, or Mental Health Problem? Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Substance Abuse and Mental Health National Institute of Mental Health Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Journal Articles Dual Diagnosis
