Dual diagnosis can be effectively treated. Both the substance abuse problems and the psychiatric condition must be specifically addressed. Dually diagnosed patients do best in specialized treatment programs. The effects of each condition may exacerbate or cause other symptoms and neglect of any illness may result in relapse. For example, an individual who is treated for alcohol abuse may not respond well if the symptoms of the underlying depressive disorder remain pervasive.
Specific treatments vary depending on the concomitant illnesses.
Alcohol abuse can respond well to traditional treatments such as abstinence coupled with support group attendance. Other types of substance dependance may require more aggressive procedures. It is important to establish realistic goals, educate the sufferer and his or her family, focus on rebuilding or building a stable environment and discuss relapse prevention strategies. Treatment of psychiatric illnesses should be undertaken by psychiatrist. A careful history and observation will help identify psychiatric disorders, if they exist undiagnosed in those suffering from substance abuse problems.