Definition: Term used to describe when a person has a severe mental illness--such as major depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia--and a co-existing alcohol or drug abuse problem.
Also Known As: dual disorders, comorbidity
Dual Diagnosis
By Nancy Schimelpfening, About.com Guide
Updated December 30, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
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