Dual diagnosis

Hey guys. I've been in a mental health crisis for a couple years now, without any help or treatment. It's getting worse. I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder in 2012. Treatment/ health-care has been sporadic at best. I'm seeking information on dual-diagnosis. I'm afraid to seek help, as I have been self-medicating. I'm afraid to somehow be penalized for that? I'm not in a position really for inpatient treatment, but I'm suffering. I have no support, no family or friends. Maybe suggestions or input would be helpful. Please.

Can you find a support group near you? Look up NAMI support groups. They are free. There will be people there going through various mental illnesses. Or since you said you have been self medicating, perhaps try an AA group? Talking to your primary care doctor is a good place to start. Also, do you have insurance? Call the back of your insurance card and see what mental health benefits you have. Also see if they have a patient advocate, health coach, or care coordinator program. They can help you find resources that you didn't know existed. Don't be afraid to speak up and let someone know you are suffering. I wouldn't think you would be penalized for having a dual diagnosis. Certainly many others are in the same boat. I notice this is your first post here on PC so welcome. HUGS if wanted, Kit

If you dont mind me asking... are you addicted to something? How are you self medicating?

I am sorry you are suffering. I am also dually diagnosed.

Can you fill in the story a bit more? Noonne here is going to judge you. But we may be able to offer better advice if we know a bit more about what is actually going on.

Hi PawneeDew. I don't know how/why you would need to be penalized. Certainly a workplace need not know. Anyone in your personal life need not know, either, except those that could be of good support for you. AA or NA are both places where anonymity is a requirement. Hopefully there are no leaks. I've never had a problem, in the past.

If you think you need some detox, of sorts, a doctor really should be consulted. I'd start with a psychiatrist, if you have one. If not, a GP could help guide you. Really, a psychiatrist would be very helpful since you have a mental health issue. The two issues can feed off of each other. It's also important to know what to expect when stopping alcohol or another substance.

I have bipolar disorder and also abused alcohol, in the past. It was not easy to get either under control, but with persistence I did. I detoxed inpatient because I had a manic episode and because I had abused alcohol to such a degree that I needed medical intervention. When that is needed, many detox programs (which usually always have dual diagnosis treatment) are only a few days, at the most. They're not all 30 day deals. In fact, most insurance providers wouldn't even pay for a 30 day stint, for most. There are also daytime or evening Intensive Outpatient Programs, that offer intensive support, if a private doc thinks is necessary.