If you struggle with both a substance use disorder and another mental health issue, you may have what’s known as a dual diagnosis.

Dual diagnosis is a term used in the field of addiction treatment to describe people who are simultaneously struggling with both a substance use disorder and another mental health issue. For example, someone could struggle with both cocaine addiction and an anxiety disorder like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or both alcoholism and bipolar disorder.

With treatment at a dual diagnosis treatment center, you can address both your substance use problems and any underlying issues that may have contributed to them.

Keep reading to learn more about the signs of a dual diagnosis.

Using Drugs to Escape Psychological Problems

A mental illness is any type of psychological disorder that disrupts your ability to function at home, work, or school. There are nearly 300 types of mental illnesses, and many of them have no cure. That’s why it’s common for people with mental illness to turn to drugs as a way to cope.

Substance use disorder and mental illness often go hand in hand, and getting treatment for each condition individually can be extremely challenging. But when you address both issues simultaneously at a dual diagnosis treatment center, you have a better chance of recovery.

Drugs Make You Feel Like Yourself

If you’re using a drug and are struggling with a mental illness, turning to substances may be a way to cope with your feelings. You may feel more relaxed and calm while you’re high, but you’re likely to return to feelings of hopelessness, depression, anxiety, or other psychological symptoms once the drugs wear off.

The best way to overcome mental illness is to take care of your mental health using non-drug-related methods. Getting counseling or participating in peer support groups at a dual diagnosis treatment center are all good ways to address your psychological symptoms.

Trying to Quit Makes You Aggressive

Drugs are designed to alter your mood, thoughts, or behavior, and it’s common for people trying to quit to experience some mood swings and even aggressive toward others. This is a common symptom of mental illness and can be dangerous to both you and those around you.

If you find yourself getting overly angry for seemingly no reason, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. While trying to get clean, it’s important to stick to a daily routine. Keeping your mind and body busy will help you stay focused on your recovery.

Exhibiting Signs of Mental Illness

Many people with underlying mental illnesses will find quitting drugs especially challenging. If you’re wondering whether you have a mental illness, there are a few signs to look out for. First, do you have trouble socializing with others? Do you avoid interacting with people? If so, there’s a good chance that you have social anxiety. This mental illness makes it difficult for you to interact with others and may cause you to avoid certain social events altogether.

Another sign that you may have a mental illness is a lack of interest in things you once enjoyed. If you’re feeling bored or detached from your daily activities, it could be a sign of depression.

It’s important to note that not all mental illnesses are obvious. If you experience any of the symptoms above, you should get evaluated by a mental health professional.

In Conclusion

Living with a dual diagnosis can be challenging, but getting the right treatment can help you manage your symptoms and begin to lead a happy, healthy life again. If you suspect that you have a dual diagnosis, it’s important to get evaluated as soon as possible. Once you receive this specialized care, you can build a better future for yourself.