Tips to Stay on Track after Dual Diagnosis Treatment
You are not alone just because you have a dual diagnosis. Millions of people have a problem with substance abuse or addiction to one or more substances. A majority of them also have a co-occurring disorder. It may be caused by drug or alcohol addiction, or it may be an underlying condition that is exacerbated by substance abuse. Some get treatment for the mental health disorder, while many more do not go for it out of fear of the stigma attached to mental illness.
The reality is that mental illnesses are surprisingly common. Almost every family in America has been touched by mental illness. You probably live near or work with or know someone else who has a mental illness, and you may not even be aware of it.
Studies reveal that there’re no differences when it comes to productivity pertaining to people with mental issues and other employees.
Your return to work after treatment for dual diagnosis might be stressful. But all jobs can be stressful to one extent or another. The truth is that you or any employee will be more productive if there is a good match between what you need and your working conditions.
The reason this distinction is important is that you are not your illness. You are not chained to a stereotypical image of an alcoholic-schizophrenic or a drug addict-bipolar. When you view yourself as having your disease, you limit your ability to envision a future without these constrictions. That you have a dual diagnosis doesn’t mean that you can’t learn how to manage both – with continuing work, support, and encouragement.