Dual diagnosis

Dual diagnosis in psychiatry and addiction refers to the presence of a substance use disorder coexisting with another major psychiatric disorder. This article reviews the prevalence and timing of occurrence of the various disorders and their combinations. The problems in diagnosis and management associated with these diagnoses are explored both from the point of view of the patient and of the treatment providers. The paper outlines a general management strategy for dual diagnosis cases and discusses specific strategies for treating particular psychiatric diagnosis combinations.