Faces of Dual Diagnosis: A Canadian Perspective

Faces of Dual Diagnosis: A Canadian Perspective

Studies reveal that about 1 in every 350 people (perhaps 90,000 Canadians) are affected by both mental health problems and addictions -- a condition referred to as "dual diagnosis" or DD. Although the impacts on society are considerable -- on our health system's resources; on our legal and social welfare programs; on employers, friends, neighbours and family; and on the individual him or herself -- remarkably little has been written in the popular media about this widespread problem. There is also inadequate awareness and training within the health, legal and social welfare systems, contends physician Robert B. Pereira, who specializes in treatment of DD clients.

In Faces of Dual Diagnosis: A Canadian Perspective, Pereira explains the various types of mental illnesses and addictions which typically are found in DD. He discusses treatment regimes and offers case studies, based on real patient profiles, to demonstrate his contention that the most successful approach includes a holistic examination and treatment of the client's mental, physical and spiritual health. Pereira discusses his own life path and then presents a case for the creation of a Canadian Center for Policy Research on Dual Diagnosis. Dozens of DD-related resources are listed in the appendix.

Dr. Pereira practices medicine in Surrey, BC.

In the heat of the mid-day sun
I rest by the ocean under the shade of a large tree.
At midnight,
where there is darkness all around
but the light shines just as brightly
- I awaken -

A creature of darkness I have been.
This I have not understood but now accept
Light, many things it is
An end to the darkness it cannot bring
Of darkness is borne the light.
-- Robert B. Pereira