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Dual Diagnosis

Research project exploring families' experiences of dual diagnosis, and developing good practice on the topic.

Funded by the Sir Halley Stewart Trust, Adfam is researching families' experiences of dual diagnosis - and developing best practice in supporting those families.

Dual diagnosis is the term used to describe people with mental health problems, who also misuse drugs or alcohol.

People affected by dual diagnosis often fall through the cracks of public services, and so do their families. Those cracks are widening as statutory services struggle to spread their ever diminishing resources. With mental health and substance misuse services coming under increased pressure, the weight placed on family members is growing, whilst the already scarce support is diminishing.

To understand how support can be better carried out we will carry out detailed consultation with family members affected by a loved one’s dual diagnosis, asking the people who have lived experience of the issues to help in identifying the most needed, and most appropriate, support for them.

We will be holding a series of focus groups across the UK and conducting phone interviews to build an accurate picture. We will also be consulting commissioners and practitioners.

If you are interested in taking part or learning more please contact Robert Stebbings.