What is dual diagnosis in mental health?

A person with dual diagnosis has both a mental disorder and an alcohol or drug problem. These conditions occur together frequently. About half of people who have a mental disorder will also have a substance use disorder at some point in their lives and vice versa.

Can you have two mental illnesses at the same time?

Is it possible to have more than one mental disorder or illness at the same time? Yes, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. The organization found, in a 12-month period, almost 50 percent of adults in the United States with any psychiatric disorder had two or more disorders.

What is the dual diagnosis model?

What Is a Dual Diagnosis? Dual Diagnosis Treatment is a method of treatment in which a person is diagnosed with both a substance use disorder (such as alcohol use disorder) and a mental health disorder (such as depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety attacks, etc.).

What does trauma informed care look like?

Trauma-Informed care represents a major shift in paradigm and practice. It has been defined as a system that realizes the widespread impact of trauma and adverse events, and seeks to actively resist re-traumatization of our clients by changing procedures and practices.

What does trauma informed practice look like?

Trauma Informed Practice is a strengths-based framework which is founded on five core principles – safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration and empowerment as well as respect for diversity.

What is a coexisting disorder?

A comorbid or coexisting condition simply means that someone has more than one condition or illness at the same time. Other terms like dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders mean the same thing. Just like mental health conditions, coexisting conditions affect everyone differently.

What are examples of trauma informed care?

Healthcare organizations, nurses and other medical staff need to know the six principles of trauma-informed care: safety; trustworthiness and transparency; peer support; collaboration and mutuality; empowerment, voice and choice; and cultural issues.

How can I talk to my professor about my mental health issues?

If you are struggling with your mental health and you’d like to talk to your professor about it, set up an office hours appointment with them, ask if you can make up any missed assignments you may have, and keep checking in with your professor throughout the term.

Should I talk about my mental illness in the classroom?

By speaking about mental health issues openly, you empower yourself to accept your mental illness as valid. By speaking up and decreasing your own self-stigma, you are likely making an easier path for the next student to approach that instructor about their mental illness.

What happens if you miss a class because of mental health?

If you do miss a class because of your mental health, talk to your professor and explain that you were gone because of an illness, and that it may happen again. Professors will appreciate knowing that you didn’t skip their class out of laziness or boredom.

How do I report a mental illness to my University?

Visiting your university’s psychological services is the first line of defense if you are struggling with a mental health problem. Psychological services are designed to help students with specific mental health problems relating to academics. Disability offices at many universities allow you to register your mental illness.