 
Dual diagnosis, also known as a co-occurring disorder, is a combination of addiction and emotional or psychiatric illness. More often than not, addiction, or chemical dependency, is coupled with mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorders and eating disorders.
Research Suggests…
- More than 70 percent of hospitalized alcoholics have experienced one or more episodes of another substance or psychiatric diagnosis in their lifetime.
- A psychiatric disorder can mask addiction, and conversely, addiction can mask a psychiatric disorder.
- More than 30 percent of individuals with eating disorders abuse or are dependent on drugs or alcohol.
- Depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder are the most common co-occurring disorders associated with eating disorders.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment for a Lasting Recovery
Achieving a lasting recovery from anorexia nervosa, bulimia and/or substance abuse requires treatment for mental health issues. According to recent studies by the National Institute for Mental Health, when these issues are simultaneously diagnosed and treated, the success rate more than doubles. However, attending to one disorder while ignoring the other can lead to a relapse of both.
A client with dual diagnosis must work to get better from both illnesses. If the disorders aren’t treated, you will have difficulty staying healthy and you can’t expect to get off the “roller coaster.” Doctors, therapists, case managers, friends and family can all provide help and support for a successful recovery. When both disorders are treated, you will feel better about yourself and more satisfied with your life.
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Dual Diagnosis
