When mental health difficulties and problematic alcohol or other substance use occur together, treating one without addressing the other can make recovery more difficult. At Hirondelle Private Hospital in Chatswood, our Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Program provides integrated, psychiatrist-led care that addresses both challenges simultaneously.
The program is a structured, evidence-informed two-week inpatient group program designed for people experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use difficulties. Recognising the close relationship between emotional wellbeing and addiction, the program helps participants develop practical skills, greater self-awareness and personalised recovery strategies to support long-term health and wellbeing.
A referral from a GP or specialist is required, and treatment is delivered within a safe and supportive inpatient environment.
Dual diagnosis, also known as a co-occurring disorder, refers to experiencing a mental health condition and substance use difficulties at the same time. Common mental health conditions seen alongside alcohol or drug use include:
Mental health symptoms can contribute to substance use, while alcohol and drugs can worsen mental health symptoms. This often creates a cycle that can be difficult to break without treatment that addresses both issues together.
There is rarely a single cause of dual diagnosis. Factors such as genetics, trauma, stressful life experiences, brain chemistry and environmental influences can all play a role.
People may use alcohol or drugs to manage difficult emotions, anxiety, low mood or distressing experiences. Over time, substance use can begin to worsen those symptoms and create additional challenges. Effective treatment therefore focuses on understanding the relationship between mental health and substance use, while building healthier ways to cope and recover.
The iMH Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Program is designed to support people in understanding the connection between their mental health and substance use while building practical recovery skills.
Participants learn strategies to:
Manage cravings and urges Build motivation for change Understand the neuroscience of addiction Challenge unhelpful thinking patterns Strengthen emotional regulation skills Develop mindfulness and self-compassion Improve sleep, lifestyle balance and wellbeing Prevent relapse and manage high-risk situations Build supportive relationships and recovery networks Set meaningful goals aligned with personal values Develop an individualised recovery and resilience plan
The program draws on a range of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including:
Care is delivered within a multidisciplinary environment that supports participants in addressing both mental health symptoms and substance use challenges as part of a coordinated treatment plan.
Over the two-week program, participants explore:
Participants leave the program with:
Greater insight into their mental health and substance use patterns Improved coping and emotional regulation skills Increased confidence in managing cravings and triggers Practical relapse prevention tools Stronger support networks A personalised recovery plan Greater hope, resilience and readiness for ongoing recovery
Prior to commencing treatment, participants undergo a clinical assessment with their treating psychiatrist and one of our care coordinators to understand their mental health concerns, substance use history and treatment needs.
The treating team develops a personalised treatment plan that supports participation in the program while addressing any additional clinical needs.
Participants attend a comprehensive two-week group program focused on education, therapeutic skills development and recovery planning.
Throughout the program, participants develop practical strategies, identify ongoing supports and create a personalised plan for maintaining progress after discharge. Prior to discharge participants may be referred to one of our outpatient programs including day intensive, day program or hospital in the home. All patients will receive phone calls post discharge to check in regarding post discharge progress and ongoing recovery.
The Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Program may be suitable for people who:
Hirondelle Private Hospital, part of the iMH network, provides psychiatrist led inpatient mental health and addiction treatment in Sydney. Located in Chatswood, our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to support people experiencing cooccurring mental health and substance use challenges through evidence based treatment, education and recovery focused care.
The Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Program complements broader inpatient treatment and provides a supportive environment where recovery from both mental health difficulties and substance use challenges can begin.
What is dual diagnosis treatment?
Dual diagnosis treatment supports people experiencing both a mental health condition and substance use difficulties by addressing both issues together through an integrated treatment approach.
How long is the Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Program?
The program is delivered as a structured two week inpatient group program.
What therapies are used in the program?
The program incorporates CBT, motivational enhancement strategies, mindfulness based interventions, relapse prevention planning, harm minimisation principles and values based recovery approaches.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A referral from a GP or specialist is required before admission.
Can family members enquire on behalf of a loved one?
Yes. Family members are welcome to contact the Admissions Team to discuss the referral and admission process.
Living with both mental health difficulties and substance use challenges can feel overwhelming, particularly when each issue affects the other. The Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Program at Hirondelle Private Hospital provides integrated, evidence informed treatment that helps participants understand the relationship between addiction and mental health, develop practical recovery skills and build a pathway towards lasting wellbeing.
To learn more, speak with your GP about a referral or contact our Admissions Team on 1800 955 665.
