Closed petition All NHS trusts should provide dual diagnosis treatment

Closed on 6 December 2016

When mental health problems and substance misuse co-exist, this is known as a dual diagnosis. 22-44% of all adult inpatients in England also have a substance misuse problem and 22% of all suicides are linked to alcohol use.

Why are so many people falling through the net?

Many NHS trusts simply refuse to make a mental health diagnosis if the individual is under the influence of alcohol. Without an assessment, an appropriate referral cannot be made and treatment cannot be given, leaving the individual to continue self-medicating while their physical and mental health deteriorates.

Sectioning or suicide shouldn't be the only options left.

Early intervention is vital. More funding is needed. More training. More communication. More person-centred treatment.