Positive psychology in dual diagnosis: a preliminary investigation

Abstract

Purpose Positive psychology is an area of rapid development in mainstream psychology, yet it has had little impact thus far in the field of dual diagnosis (DD). Effective treatment for clients with DD is limited, due to the lack of all-encompassing interventions that treat the two conditions simultaneously. The purpose of this paper is threefold: first, to discover the prevalence of DD among users of selected drug services in Manchester; second, to explore differences between DD clients and those with substance use in hope, resilience, and well-being; and third, to identify predictors of hope, resilience, and well-being in this population. Design/methodology/approach The Snyder Hope Scale, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale were administered to 113 users of drug services through a convenience sampling method. Findings Findings from this preliminary investigation indicated that the DD group were more vulnerable as they were less hopeful, less resilient, and had poorer well-being than their counterparts. Practical implications This population of clients might benefit from specialized integrated treatment facilitating hope and resilience, which in turn would improve their well-being. Originality/value The present study addresses a gap in the literature. Although the above positive psychological aspects have been looked at in relation to mental health, and in relation to addiction, the current research explores these positive dimensions with regard to the co-occurrence of substance abuse and mental illness.

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