Question

The client was diagnosed with cocaine abuse at age 30. When the client was 23, the client was diagnosed with major depressive episode, and has continued to have depression off and on since then. Which statement would reflect this situation?

a-The client's prognosis is very poor because discontinuing the cocaine use will exacerbate depressive symptoms.
b-The client is probably using cocaine in combination with her antidepressants to enhance the effects of the cocaine.
c-The client needs to address the cocaine abuse first before addressing her episodes of depression.
d-The client most likely has a dual diagnosis since she has both a substance dependence and depression.

Answer 1

d-The client most likely has a dual diagnosis since she has both a substance dependence and depression.

Step-by-step explanation:

What is dual diagnosis?

An individual with dual diagnosis shows both a mental disorder and an alcohol or drug situation. These situations is seen in unison more often. Nearly half of people who shows a mental disorder do express substance use disorder at a point or the other. The interrelationship of the two situation can worsen both.

Why do substance use disorders and mental disorders is often seen in unison?

Thou they occur together, but it can't be said that one prompt the other, even if one started earlier as in our case study.

There are three reasons showing why they occur in unison:

•Generally, risk factors may lead to both mental disorders and substance use disorders. Such as genetics, stress, and trauma.

•Mental disorders can lead to drug use and substance use disorders. Using drugs or alcohol to find relief (self-medication). This could lead to addiction.

•Substance use and addiction can contribute to the occurrence of a mental disorder. Causes brain changes.

What are the treatments for dual diagnosis?

Individuals with dual disorder should treat both conditions. For the treatment to be operative, there is need to abstain from alcohol or drugs. Treatments may involve behavioral therapies and medicines. Also, support groups importance for emotional and social support cannot be neglected.