Substance Use & Dual Diagnosis

Substance Use Disorders involve the harmful or compulsive use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances, which impact physical health, mental well-being, and daily functioning. Dual Diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of a substance use disorder and a mental health condition in the same individual, requiring integrated treatment.

Substance Use Disorders

Substance use becomes a disorder when it leads to significant impairment, distress, or risky behaviors. Common types include:

1. Alcohol Use Disorder

Problematic drinking that includes craving, loss of control, tolerance, withdrawal, and continued use despite negative consequences.

2. Tobacco Use Disorder

Dependence on nicotine products, often leading to addiction and health issues such as respiratory and heart diseases.

3. Cannabis Use Disorder

Ongoing and problematic use of marijuana, impacting memory, motivation, and overall functioning.

4. Opioid Use Disorder

Dependence on prescription painkillers (like morphine or oxycodone) or illegal opioids (like heroin), often resulting in intense cravings and high overdose risk.

5. Stimulant Use Disorder

Abuse of stimulants like cocaine, methamphetamine, or ADHD medications, leading to increased energy, paranoia, and severe health consequences.

6. Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Use Disorder

Misuse of anti-anxiety or sleep medications (like benzodiazepines), which can cause dependence, memory issues, and withdrawal symptoms.

7. Hallucinogen and Inhalant Use Disorders

Use of substances that alter perception (e.g., LSD, solvents), leading to unpredictable behavior, psychosis, or physical damage.

Dual Diagnosis (Co-Occurring Disorders)

When an individual has both a mental health disorder (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder) and a substance use disorder, it's called dual diagnosis. These conditions influence each other and often complicate diagnosis and treatment, requiring a holistic, integrated care approach that addresses both issues simultaneously.