Explanation of Dual Diagnosis

Dual Diagnosis is having an Intellectual/Developmental Disability (IDD) AND a Mental Health Disorder. Sometimes a mental health challenge comes that is not necessarily connected to the disability. However, it is helpful to know if the mental health concern is connected to the disability. Whatever the reason for the co-occurrence, we still need an appropriate treatment plan. It can be more difficult to find professionals able to treat mental health in someone with an IDD. Some helpful resources for Dual Diagnosis include:

Utah Parent Center Dual Diagnosis Modules – What Families Need to Know When a Family Member has Developmental Disabilities Plus Mental Health Needs https://utahparentcenter.org/dual-diagnosis-module/ 

Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities National Training Center (MHDD) – A place to learn, connect and explore, for families and individuals with disabilities and mental health needs https://www.mhddcenter.org/

Local Mental Health Authorities are resources for those who may need mental health support. You can find where local services are in your county  by going here: https://dsamh.utah.gov/contact/location-map