If you have a loved one who has been given a dual diagnosis what can you do to help? There are many ways that you can offer support and help them reach a full recovery from both of the conditions that they suffer. Treatment for substance abuse and mental disorders can pose many problems, and when both are combined this compounds the issues and makes the individual more difficult to treat. It is important that you are realistic about what you can do, and that you understand what is beyond your control. You do not control whether the loved one keeps appointments, whether or not they drink or take drugs, or whether they take any prescribed medications or attend therapy sessions. You can be supportive though, and provide a positive role model with the choices that you make in your own life.
Find support services, both for your loved one and yourself. Emotional support can help you avoid isolation and depression, and you can identify and locate support services for your family member as well. Make sure that you set boundaries and stick to them, no matter how tempted you may be to cross them from time to time. This will help you stay mentally and physically healthy while you provide assistance and support. Learn everything possible about both conditions involved. This will ensure that you understand the symptoms involved and the treatments used. Be patient while your loved one is receiving treatment. Substance abuse and mental disorders can require some time to achieve the best possible treatment results, and it may take some trial and error to find the right therapies, medications, and dosage amounts to achieve the desired outcome.
