Dual Diagnosis: Coexisting Substance Use Disorders and Psychiatric Disorders

Dual diagnosis is a prevalent and serious health problem. These disorders challenge psychiatric mental health and addiction nurses to treat 2 distinct disorders. Despite advances in the treatment of these disorders, there remains a void in the ideal approach. This article offers psychiatric nurses opportunities to improve their expertise in the identification of vulnerable or high-risk populations by using integrated screening and brief interventions to discern treatment options. Patients who require comprehensive treatment to stabilize 1 or both disorders further challenge nurses to have a basic understanding of the powerful effects of substance use on psychiatric conditions and vice versa.