What is one potential consequence of dual diagnosis?

One potential consequence of dual diagnosis is the increased complexity in treatment and higher relapse rates. Dual diagnosis refers to the coexistence of a mental health disorder alongside a substance use disorder. This complexity arises because both conditions can significantly influence one another, making it more challenging to develop an effective treatment plan.

When individuals have both disorders, treatment must address each issue holistically rather than treating them in isolation. This often requires coordination among various healthcare providers and may necessitate integrated treatment approaches, which can be more complex than treating one disorder alone. As a result, the potential for higher relapse rates becomes significant since the interplay between substances and mental health symptoms can lead to increased vulnerability if both aspects are not appropriately managed in treatment.

While increased treatment costs could occur as a consequence of this complexity, it is the intricacies of managing dual diagnoses that fundamentally contribute to the challenge of achieving sustained recovery. Improved support networks and enhanced motivation may occur in specific contexts but are not inherent consequences of dual diagnosis itself.