Signs and Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis
Dual diagnosis refers to those individuals who have both a substance abuse problem and a form psychiatric illness simultaneously. There are no symptoms unique to a dual diagnosis per se, but the individual in question will have at least one problem associated with addiction and one mental illness.
The complications arise because these issues are not mutually exclusive. They interact with one another and make each problem that much harder to treat.
Symptoms of Alcohol or Drug Addiction
- Poor performance at work or school
- Anger management issues, including violent outbursts at friends or loved ones
- Negative changes in personal hygiene
- Abrupt changes in attitude and social behavior
- Change in peer group that usually includes giving up old friends for a "drug crowd"
- Asking to borrow money
- Stealing from friends and family
- Selling of personal items to raise money for drugs or alcohol
- Failed attempts at completing a drug rehab program
Symptoms of Mental Illness
- Schizophrenic behavior
- Depression (often severe)
- Bipolar disorder
- Eating disorders
- General, severe anxiety
- Repeated attempts at completing a psychiatric care program
If someone you know has one more or symptoms from BOTH of the groups above, then they have a dual diagnosis and need to receive professional help immediately. Remember, not all drug rehab programs are properly staffed to handle those with a dual diagnosis. Michael's House is one of the finest facilities in the county for dealing with this unique set of circumstances. Contact Michael's House today to get help for yourself, or someone you love.
