Dual diagnosis - Spectrum Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services

What happens if you or a loved one has both mental health issues and drug or alcohol problems?

When you experience mental health and drug or alcohol problems at the same time, this is called dual diagnosis.

Spectrum Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services and Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Trust (HPFT) work together to support anyone who has a dual diagnosis.

What can you expect?

HPFT and Spectrum will jointly work to help you get the right treatment for your mental health and drug or alcohol problems.

Both teams will discuss your needs when you first come to us and we can each help refer you to the other.

If you have mental health and drug/alcohol problems, you are entitled to:

An assessment: This is an opportunity for you to talk to us about your care, wellbeing and support needs.
A joint care plan: This plan involves you and your carer (if appropriate) and will document your care and needs.
Regular care meetings and reviews, which your loved ones can join as well.
Other services: Help and support on offer may include peer support, access to medication, therapy, work/volunteering opportunities, group programmes and more.
Support from HPFT and Spectrum to assess and treat your mental health and address and treat your substance use. A named contact from HPFT and a Recovery Worker from Spectrum will support.

When you have a dual diagnosis, we will care for you based on your individual experience of mental health issues and substance use.

Looking beyond your symptoms and problems, we'll work with you to support you on your path to recovery and a healthier happier life.

We also respect your rights - you are free to accept or refuse any treatment we offer you.

If you’re more concerned about your drug or alcohol use, get in touch with Spectrum:

If you’re more worried about your mental health, get in touch with HPFT:

If you’re already receiving treatment with one of us, ask your Recovery Worker or Care Coordinator to refer you for extra support.