Understanding Dual Diagnosis and How to Cope

Understanding the connection between your mental health and substance abuse disorder and learning how to cope effectively can lead to improved recovery outcomes and improved quality of life.

That's our goal at Magnolia Medical Group, where we offer communities in and around Denver and Wheat Ridge, Colorado, top-level treatment and mental health services for addiction recovery without judgment.

Learn more about dual diagnosis and how it influences recovery.

What is dual diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis (co-occurring disorders) refers to the simultaneous occurrence of a mental health condition and a substance use disorder.

This complex interplay between mental health and addiction can create unique challenges for individuals, their families, and their treatment teams.

These conditions can influence one another in profound ways:

Mental health disorders as triggers

People with untreated mental health issues may turn to substances as a form of self-medication to relieve often overwhelming symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

Addiction’s impact on mental health

Substance abuse can worsen or trigger mental health symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between the two conditions.

Why is dual diagnosis common?

Mental health and addiction share several risk factors, including:

Genetic predisposition

Family history can increase vulnerability to both conditions.

Brain chemistry

Imbalances in neurotransmitters can lead to both mental illness and substance dependence.

Trauma

Early life experiences of abuse or neglect can affect substance use disorders and mental health struggles.

Stress and environment

Chronic stress or living in a substance-heavy environment can contribute to co-occurrence.

Signs and symptoms of dual diagnosis

Recognizing dual diagnosis can be tricky because the symptoms of one condition may mask or mimic those of the other.

Common signs include:

• Difficulty managing daily responsibilities
• Uncontrollable substance use despite negative consequences
• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression that don't improve
• Withdrawal from friends or loved ones
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed hobbies
• Struggles with memory, focus, or decision-making

How to cope with dual diagnosis

Coping with dual diagnosis requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both conditions simultaneously:

Integrated treatment

Our dual diagnosis treatment programs at Magnolia Medical Group address mental health and substance use disorders concurrently.

Interventions we offer include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for cravings and mental health stabilization
• Individual counseling focused on healthy coping strategies
• Group therapy or peer support groups to foster connection and shared experiences

If past trauma is contributing to your struggles, trauma-focused therapy such as EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) can be beneficial.

Other coping strategies include:

Building a healthy support system

Surrounding yourself with trustworthy people who understand your journey is an excellent coping strategy. Joining groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or specialized dual diagnosis support groups may be immensely helpful.

Practicing self-care

Healthy self-care includes:

• Exercise
• A healthy diet
• Restful sleep
• Stress management

Additionally, understanding your diagnosis can help you to make informed choices. We provide ample information regarding how addiction and mental health interact and help you identify personal triggers and strategies for managing them.

Take the next step

Recovery from dual diagnosis is highly achievable with proper support, and reaching out to a qualified professional is crucial.

Our team has the skills and experience you need to build a resilient coping toolkit, regain control over your life, and find joy and fulfillment again.

Schedule a visit at Magnolia Medical Group today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.