Explaining Bipolar Disorder and Dual Diagnoses

Bipolar disorder has been a topic of TV shows, news broadcasts, and movies, but many people do not understand the severity and potential setbacks that often accompany a manic or depressive episode. Bipolar disorder remains the second-most common mood disorder in the country, affecting approximately 2.6 million American adults. Suffering from bipolar disorder is also a key risk factor for addiction. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, about half of those with a serious mental illness such as bipolar disorder also have a substance abuse disorder.

What is a dual diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis is a medical and psychiatric term that is used to describe the co-occurrence of substance abuse and a mental health illness. Because the symptoms of bipolar disorder and substance abuse may appear identical, reports the National Institute on Drug Abuse, someone who suffers from both conditions is at risk for receiving an inaccurate diagnosis.

The term “comorbidity” refers to a person who suffers from multiple mental health disorders that interact with each other, making each harder to diagnose and treat. Those with suspected cases of comorbid conditions should receive treatment at a bipolar treatment center with a focus on dual diagnosis.

Substance abuse may occur at the same time as any form of bipolar disorder. For example, some bipolar patients may abuse substances as a coping mechanism for depressive states. Alternatively, those in manic states may engage in risky behaviors such as drug abuse and develop an addiction. Unfortunately, substance abuse only worsens the symptoms of an episode and can result in a faster cycling between episodic states.

Frequent bipolar disorder treatment is important

Bipolar disorder may move between manic and depressive episodes periodically, even when receiving appropriate treatment. Although mood-stabilizing medication can lessen the effects of transitioning between episodes, substance abuse may counteract the effects of medication. Furthermore, medication treatment of bipolar disorder often requires readjustments to account for sudden changes in manic or depressive states, especially when traumatic events have occurred.

When not in crisis, those with dual diagnosis bipolar disorders should obtain treatment on an outpatient basis. This will help to prevent relapse and progression or worsening of symptoms.

Dual diagnosis represents a major burden in U.S. health care. For some, the severity of dual diagnosis can be lethal. By understanding how bipolar disorder interacts with co-occurring substance abuse disorder, an individual can take steps to help prevent relapse and maintain control over both conditions.