What exactly is dual diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis refers to simultaneously having a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Some of the mental health disorders that can occur while having a substance use disorder are anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

What differentiates dual diagnosis from comorbidity?

The main difference between dual diagnosis and comorbidity is that dual diagnosis is substance abuse and mental health issue. Comorbidity only refers to substance abuse and another physical condition, not a mental health condition.

How are comorbid conditions typically treated?

Comorbid conditions usually are treated with medications and mental health treatment which is usually some form of therapy. The combination of the two usually helps symptoms become reduced or at least disappear entirely if possible.

comorbidity | WhiteSandsTreatment

Dual Diagnosis vs Comorbidity

Understanding Dual Diagnosis When looking at dual diagnosis vs comorbidity, it’s important to look at each separately. A dual diagnosis is when you simultaneously have a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Mental health disorders include depression, anxiety, and other...

08/22 2023