Recognizing When a Loved One Needs Help
Have you noticed a loved one behaving differently lately—perhaps withdrawing from family gatherings, experiencing mood swings, or showing signs of substance use? It can be confusing and heartbreaking to witness someone you care about struggle with both mental health and addiction issues. This combination, known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders, is more common than many people realize, especially among women.
This guide is designed for families and loved ones who are concerned and unsure of what steps to take next. Understanding dual diagnosis is the first step to helping your loved one find the right support and begin their journey to recovery.
What is Dual Diagnosis? (And Why It’s Often Missed in Women)
Dual diagnosis refers to the coexistence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in the same individual. For example, someone may be dealing with depression while also struggling with alcohol addiction. Other common mental health conditions associated with dual diagnosis include anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders.
In women, dual diagnosis often goes undetected. This is due in part to societal expectations that women should “keep it together” for their families or hide their struggles to avoid judgment. Additionally, symptoms of mental health disorders may be masked by substance use or dismissed as stress, making it even harder for loved ones to recognize the underlying issues.
Common Signs Your Loved One May Be Struggling with Dual Diagnosis
Recognizing the signs of dual diagnosis in women can be challenging, but there are key indicators to watch for:
Behavioral & Emotional Changes:
- Sudden mood swings or irritability
- Withdrawal from family, friends, and activities once enjoyed
- Erratic or risky behavior
- Difficulty maintaining work, school, or household responsibilities
Physical Signs:
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Frequent illnesses or unexplained physical complaints
- Poor personal hygiene
- Signs of substance use, such as bloodshot eyes or slurred speech
When to Worry:
If your loved one exhibits a combination of these behaviors over an extended period, it’s essential to consider seeking professional help. Ignoring the signs can lead to worsening mental health and increased substance use.
What to Do:
Start by having an open, non-judgmental conversation. Express your concern and willingness to support them. If they are resistant, consider reaching out to a professional for advice on how to proceed.
How to Support a Loved One with Dual Diagnosis
Women experience dual diagnosis differently than men due to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors:
Trauma & Gender-Specific Issues:
Many women with dual diagnosis have a history of trauma, such as physical or emotional abuse. Trauma can significantly increase the risk of both mental health disorders and substance use. Additionally, societal pressures—such as being the primary caregiver or balancing work and family—can contribute to mental health struggles.
Stigma:
Women often face greater stigma when seeking help for addiction and mental health issues. They may fear being labeled as “unfit” mothers or feel ashamed of not meeting societal expectations. This stigma can prevent women from reaching out for the help they desperately need.
Understanding these unique challenges can help families approach their loved ones with empathy and patience.
The Unique Struggles Women Face with Dual Diagnosis
Supporting a loved one through dual diagnosis can be emotionally taxing, but your involvement can make a significant difference in their recovery journey.
- Choose a quiet, private time to talk.
- Use “I” statements to express your concern (e.g., “I’ve noticed you seem stressed lately, and I’m worried about you”).
- Avoid blaming or shaming language.
- Be clear about behaviors you cannot support (e.g., substance use in your home).
- Offer help, but don’t enable destructive behavior.
- Take care of your own mental health by seeking support from friends, counselors, or support groups.
- What is Substance Abuse Treatment? A Booklet for Families: This guide from SAMHSA helps families understand the treatment process and how they can play a supportive role throughout recovery
- Family Therapy Can Help: For People in Recovery from Mental Illness or Addiction: Learn how family therapy can strengthen recovery outcomes and improve communication within the household.
- Attend family therapy sessions to learn coping strategies.
- Join support groups like Al-Anon or NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) for guidance from others in similar situations.
- Educate yourself about dual diagnosis to better understand what your loved one is experiencing.
First Steps to Finding Help (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)
Finding the right treatment for a loved one can feel daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can help:
Where to Begin:
- Start by consulting a primary care physician or mental health professional for an initial evaluation.
- Research dual diagnosis treatment centers that specialize in women’s care.
Understanding Treatment Options:
- Integrated Treatment Programs: These address both mental health and substance use simultaneously.
- Therapies for Women: Look for centers that offer trauma-informed care, gender-specific support groups, and holistic therapies like yoga or mindfulness.
Empowering Families:
Don’t be afraid to ask questions when researching treatment centers. Understand their approach, the role of family in treatment, and aftercare support options.
Hope and Recovery: What Families Can Expect
Anchored Tides is the place for you if you are considering changing you current status with addiction. Thanks to the committed and passionate owners/staff, I now have a completely different life today! I was accepted into this program during the worst time of my life, and they above and beyond to help me repair and regain things that had been lost in my addiction such as HOPE. I'm very grateful for the experience I had with these women and will forever miss them. Consider yourself very lucky to be a part of ATR as the women that go through this program come out on top. I witnessed this through my own experience as well as 6 others that graduated before and after myself! Sobriety is one thing, but having a new outlook on life as you once knew it is another! Eternally grateful to Amy, Becca, Becca White, Hillary, Tanya, Sierra, Ariel, and last but not least MARKIE! I had never been to a treatment program before, and it wasn't easy for me at first, but turned out to actually be a very beautiful time in my life!!! Thanks Team! 😊
Long-Term Involvement:
Recovery doesn’t end when treatment does. Ongoing family support, open communication, and participation in aftercare programs are vital to maintaining progress.
Coping as a Family:
Navigating a loved one’s dual diagnosis can be emotionally taxing for families. SAMHSA’s Coping Resources for Families provide valuable tools to manage stress, understand mental health challenges, and build resilience as a support system.
Taking the Next Step: Support, Hope, and Action
Watching a loved one struggle with dual diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Recognizing the signs, offering support, and finding the right treatment can make all the difference in their recovery.
If you’re worried about a loved one, don’t wait. Learn more about how dual diagnosis treatment can help—reach out today for guidance and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Helping a Loved One With Dual Diagnosis Disorders
Look for signs like mood swings, withdrawal from loved ones, erratic behavior, and physical symptoms such as changes in appetite or sleep patterns. If these signs persist, consult a mental health professional for an evaluation.
Absolutely. SAMHSA offers guides like What is Substance Abuse Treatment? A Booklet for Families Click to learn more > https://store.samhsa.gov/product/what-substance-abuse-treatment-booklet-families/sma14-4126 and Coping Resources for Families to help families navigate this journey. Click to learn more >https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families/coping-resources
