When someone is struggling with both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder, it’s known as a dual diagnosis, or co-occurring disorder. This condition is more common than many realize—and in Mississippi, it’s a growing concern among families, healthcare providers, and communities alike.
At Mississippidatc, we believe that understanding dual diagnosis is the first step toward lasting recovery.
What Is Dual Diagnosis?
Dual diagnosis refers to the presence of both a mental health disorder (like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder) and a substance use disorder (such as alcohol addiction or opioid dependence) in the same person.
These disorders interact in complex ways:
- Mental illness can lead to substance use as a way of self-medicating.
- Substance use can worsen or even trigger mental health conditions.
- Both conditions feed into each other, making it difficult to treat one without addressing the other.
Common Co-Occurring Disorders
Some of the most common combinations we see at our Mississippi treatment center include:
- Depression and alcohol addiction
- Anxiety and benzodiazepine dependence
- PTSD and opioid misuse
- Bipolar disorder and stimulant addiction
Many clients have lived for years misdiagnosed or untreated, never realizing that both issues were connected.
Why Dual Diagnosis Requires Specialized Treatment
Treating just the addiction—or just the mental health issue—often leads to relapse. That’s why dual diagnosis requires an integrated treatment approach, where both conditions are addressed at the same time.
At Mississippidatc, we offer:
- Medical detox with psychiatric support
- Therapy for mental health AND substance use
- Medication management when appropriate
- Trauma-informed care
- Relapse prevention and aftercare planning
Dual Diagnosis in Mississippi: Why It Matters
In Mississippi, where access to mental health care can be limited—especially in rural areas—dual diagnosis is often underdiagnosed. According to recent data, more than 40% of people with substance use disorders also live with a mental health condition.
Yet many don’t get proper care.
Mississippidatc is here to fill that gap for Biloxi, Gulfport, and communities across the state. We’re committed to helping individuals get the full-spectrum care they need.
What Recovery Looks Like
Recovery from dual diagnosis takes time, patience, and support—but it’s absolutely possible. With the right treatment, many people go on to live healthy, stable, fulfilling lives.
We work closely with each client to develop a personalized recovery plan that respects their mental health needs and substance use history.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health and addiction, you’re not alone—and help is available. Contact Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center today to learn how our dual diagnosis program can help you or someone you love start fresh.
Call us 24/7: (855) 334-6120
MississippiDATC.com
13251 Reece Bergeron Road, Biloxi, MS 39532
Outpatient Programs for Flexible Addiction Treatment