Dual diagnosis is a term used when a person has a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety alongside a problem with alcohol or drugs. So, going back to the analogy of having a headache, people suffering from dual diagnosis will use drugs to mask the symptoms of their mood disorders, which in turn causes more harm.
I am a blackout drunk. I am also a 32 year old woman, who has a successful career. I am married to a wonderful man, and we have 2 small children. We live in sunny California. Today, I am in a good place. I feel happy and secure. It's an amazing feeling, especially when you compare it to where I was nine months ago. I don’t want to forget how bad I felt.
800 Recovery Hub Blog 