Please use this book and bible as refernce  Doweiko (2015): chs. 18–20, 24Discuss in detail dual-diagnosis from your readings, then incorporate how such coexisting disorders impact the addiction cy

Dual Diagnoses

Liberty University

Dual diagnose(s) is a familiar term in many of the substance abuse rehabilitation centers around the world. Many substance abuse disorders (SUD) go hand-in-hand with mental health illnesses. Many individuals believe that these two diagnoses do not go together, but with much research, it has been proven that they are linked in many ways.

Clients with any form of mental illness is approximately 270% more likely to have substance use disorder than any other individual (Doweiko, 2015). Working in a dual-diagnoses clinic, it is clearly seen how the two diagnoses are related. “It has been suggested that coexisting conditions such as the SUDs and (a) anorexia, (b) bulimia, (c) gambling, (d) spousal abuse, (e) compulsive shopping, (f) compulsive sexual behaviors, (g) AIDS, and even (h) other physical disorders qualify as dual diagnosis clients” (Doweiko, 2015, p. 340). The most common dual diagnosis seen in the rehabilitation center I work at is: anxiety and depression. These types of mental health disorders are more common than any other diagnoses the clinic treats and deals with on a daily basis.

According to Doweiko (2015), there are four different models to help understand dual-diagnoses. The first model is that substance use disorders and mental illness are similar. The second model or theory is that “substance use by persons with mental illness reflects an attempt at self-medication” (Doweiko, 2015, p. 340). The third theory is the substance abuse is caused by (or secondary) to mental illness and should improve once the condition improves. The last theory or model is that “individuals with mental illness might be exceptionally sensitive to the effects of the drugs of abuse, increasing their attractiveness to the abuser” (Doweiko, 2015, p. 340).

Can dual diagnoses be treated? The simple answer is absolutely. But the more detailed answer is, it takes time. The client must be willing to open up and be truthful about all the symptoms and all the issues that has arose from substance abuse. This can be either before or after the mental health issues. The client must be willing to address and get help for both diagnoses. Medication, therapy, 12-step, Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous is a great start to getting help and getting on the road to recovery.

Working in a dual diagnoses clinic is one of the hardest and most rewarding challenges that I have ever faced. I am able to see patients at their worst and see them transform over time into the person they long to be. During this time, I can minister and share the gospel with the clients that are accepting. I can show the patients that just because you messed up, does not mean you cannot get right with God. Some of my favorite verses to share regarding their situations are: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NIV). The second verse that I like to share is: “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul” (Psalm 94:19 NIV). I believe this verse helps them because the patient can see that even in the Bible, they mention about anxiety. Seeing the words and relying it to their own life is truly life-changing for them.

With these patients, teaching them the Word and showing them that they can overcome obstacles is such a rewarding ministry. The last verse that I share to give them hope and encouragement is: “The Lord is my light and salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1). With this, I also like to share the song, Everlasting God, with this the patients can hear the scripture and feel the emotions of worship.

                                                        References

Doweiko, H. E.  (2015). Belmont, CA:  Brooks/Cole. Concepts of chemical dependency (9th 

     ed.) Belmont, CA:  Brooks/Cole.