Dual Diagnosis

We welcome patients with dual diagnosis onto our specialised programme. 

The term dual diagnosis describes people who have severe mental health and drug or alcohol problems. The mental health problems may include schizophrenia, depression or bipolar disorder or personality disorders.

Programme Description

We provide assessments of the mental health and substance misuse problems, and help the individual to consider the various issues which may have led to their difficulties. We then provide integrated treatment for both.

Members of the multidisciplinary team (nursing staff, occupational therapist, clinical psychologist and doctor) are trained in dual diagnosis treatment. We provide individual therapeutic sessions and group therapy.

The group programme includes CBT based groups (eg Staying Well) and groups focused on substance misuse (Double Trouble and Next Steps). Attendance is offered in other groups on sister programmes on the Hannah Mills unit according to the individual's need and interest (eg Understanding Your Diagnosis and Managing Your Emotions). Mindfulness is taught and its practice is encouraged.

The emphasis is on stage treatment via motivational interviewing, and the programme is flexible in content and duration. Relapse prevention and liaison with community services is the focus of the pre-discharge phase. 

In order to safeguard the integrity of the programme, individuals will be required to abstain from using illicit substances while they are with us.

Who will benefit from our services?

• Men or women with a diagnosis of mental health illness and substance misuse.
• People requiring both detoxification and rehabilitation in an inpatient environment.

For information about accessing treatment, please click here.