Abstract

VAN ZYL, Karina  and  GEYER, Stephan. Dual Diagnosis: How Adults Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder Experience In-patient Substance Abuse Treatment for Stimulant Use Disorder. Social work (Stellenbosch. Online) [online]. 2019, vol.55, n.2, pp.204-222. ISSN 2312-7198.  http://dx.doi.org/10.15270/52-2-716.

Dual diagnosis has become a topic of interest in recent years. In South Africa individuals diagnosed with dual diagnosis are left without adequate services as a result of the separation of substance abuse and mental health treatment services. Through a phenomenological study the authors aimed to explore how adults diagnosed with both bipolar disorder and stimulant use disorder experienced treatment at treatment centres. Considered from a bio-psychosocial perspective, the findings give insight into service users' living world with a dual diagnosis, their experiences, their unique needs for treatment and requirements to maintain abstinence. Recommendations for social work services at treatment centres are offered.

Keywords : dual-diagnosis; bipolar disorder; stimulant use disorder; substance use disorder; adult; in-patient treatment.

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