Dual diagnosis, as described by those who experience the disorder: Using the Internet as a source of data

ABSTRACT The complexity of providing treatment for people with dual diagnosis is well recognized. For the purpose of this paper, the World Health Organization definition of dual diagnosis was used; that is, a person diagnosed with an alcohol or drug use problem in addition to mental illness. This re...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of mental health nursing 2012-12, Vol.21 (6), p.550-559
Main Authors: Edward, Karen-Leigh, Robins, Alan
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Addictions
Alcohol
Comorbidity
Data sources
Diagnosis, Dual (Psychiatry) - psychology
Drinking behavior
Drug abuse
Drugs
dual diagnosis
Humans
Insight
Internet
Meaning
Medical diagnosis
Mental disorders
Mental Disorders - psychology
Mental Disorders - therapy
Mental health services
Mental illness
Narratives
Nursing
Peer Group
personal experience
Personal information
Personal Narratives as Topic
Privacy
Problem drinking
Social Support
Substance abuse
Substance-Related Disorders - psychology
Substance-Related Disorders - therapy
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Summary:ABSTRACT The complexity of providing treatment for people with dual diagnosis is well recognized. For the purpose of this paper, the World Health Organization definition of dual diagnosis was used; that is, a person diagnosed with an alcohol or drug use problem in addition to mental illness. This research explored the personal narratives of those who experience dual diagnosis using the Internet as a data source. An important consideration in using the Internet as a data source was that Web forums can offer a sense of anonymity, allowing people to share very detailed and personal information, and providing a rich source of qualitative data. The results produced five emergent themes: spiralling out of control – again!, getting help and giving support, treating both the addiction and mental illness, having meaning and being active, and being honest with self and others. The results indicate that individuals who experience dual diagnosis are often left to navigate their personal treatment requirements across two diverse systems, and were generally not satisfied with the conflictual advice received across these two systems (i.e. alcohol and other drug and mental health services). This study has produced valuable insights related to consumer‐perceived service barriers and enablers.
ISSN:1445-8330
1447-0349
DOI:10.1111/j.1447-0349.2012.00833.x