Dual diagnosis clients are those that have been diagnosed with both a mental health issue and a substance abuse problem. These mental health conditions can be very serious, and yet the stigma and shame that surrounds them can often keep people from getting the help they need. Addiction is hard enough to try and conquer but when coupled with a mental disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, OCD, or some other mental health disorder, you can feel defeated and broken.
When you seek the help of the professionals they can be very helpful and even lifesavers but what about everyone else? Relatives and even your closest friends may not understand what you are going through. Maybe some of them do not know the extent of your condition and even others may get on your case. So what are you supposed to do?
Your friends may mean well, but when it comes down to it, the professionals know your situation more than anyone. They know what you are going through and are trained to deal with your situation. Your friends do not have the answers to your condition. Listen to the professionals and follow their advice and not your friends.
Your goal is to get better, period. Don’t waste your time arguing with your friends or relatives who are giving you a difficult time. You will not get nor do you need everyone’s approval. This is your life and you’re the one suffering. Your main focus is for you to get better. This should be the number one priority.
Tell your friends and relatives that the best way for them to help you is to learn about your condition. They could talk to a counselor, they could do family therapy, and they could read some good books or join you at a support group to learn about your condition. They won’t know exactly the pain your suffering but they will have some idea of what you are going through.
If some of your friends or relatives are hindering your progress in getting better, then distance yourself from them. You need to surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Again, if you have problems or issues with a particular person, you can always ask your counselor for advice on how to deal with them.
Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future.
