Whether you have self-diagnosed or a medical doctor has diagnosed you with a co-occurring disorder (aka: dual diagnosis), it’s always imperative to find out which disorders you are suffering from.
Learning about yourself, your dual diagnosis, and the proper treatment programs for the disorders can go a long way in helping you recover fully.
I’m sharing this article because I’m a best-selling wellness author – known for my health-boosting longevity book, Life is Long.
Inside my book I share a range of health tips. In this article I will be focusing on helpful coping strategies for people who are struggling with a dual diagnosis.
This article looks at 5 coping strategies for dual diagnosis to aid your path to recovery.
People with mental illnesses and approximately fifty percent of those with severe mental illnesses have substance abuse problems. While that is the case, the occurrence of mental illness and substance abuse doesn’t mean that one condition causes the other. In some cases, the causality differs.
Drug abuse can make an individual experience mental illness symptoms, such as the case of psychosis among users of marijuana. At the same time, overlapping factors like trauma and genetics could cause dual diagnosis.
In that case, finding the right treatment plan can be a challenge as you could end up utilizing your time and resources in finding which disorder affects the other, to determine the right treatment plan. However, a trained professional can help you find a SUD treatment program that best suits your case.
Building a strong support system is like having a safety net during challenging times. Your support network can include friends, family members, support groups, and therapists.
Surrounding yourself with people who understand your struggles and can provide emotional support and encouragement is invaluable. Support groups tailored for individuals with dual diagnoses can be especially helpful, offering a safe space to share experiences, gain insights, and learn from others who have faced similar challenges.
Substance abuse often emerges as an attempt to cope with the symptoms of a mental health disorder. To break this cycle, it’s essential to develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Explore stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness and meditation, engage in regular physical activity, and pursue creative outlets such as art or music.
In certain cases, medication may play a vital role in managing dual diagnosis. Conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia may require medication to stabilize mood and alleviate symptoms.
It’s crucial to collaborate closely with a psychiatrist as proper medication management can significantly enhance your ability to function well in daily life and actively engage in therapy.
Recovery from dual diagnosis is a marathon, not a sprint, and staying committed to this journey is paramount. Regularly attend therapy sessions, follow prescribed medication regimens, and make necessary lifestyle changes that support your well-being.
Remember that relapses can occur, but they shouldn’t be seen as failures. Maintain open communication with your support system and treatment providers, especially when facing challenges or setbacks.
Coping with dual diagnosis is undoubtedly challenging, but it’s crucial to understand that recovery is possible. By knowing the cause of your condition, building a robust support system, embracing healthy coping mechanisms, managing medication as needed, and staying committed to your recovery journey, individuals facing dual diagnoses can work towards a brighter future.
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