Title: Crossing Diagnostic Barriers
Author: Dee Parkin
Guide: Dr. M. Ghazirad MD
Year: 2008

Abstract:

Objectives: To investigate the scope of Homeopathic treatment of people with enduring mental distress
 and substance misuse issues. 
Methods: Qualitative analysis of Retrospective, In-depth interviews with 70 clients of two Drug & 
Alcohol treatment projects referred for Homeopathic treatment in Bristol, England.
Results: Literature research revealed this condition in the field of treatment is often called 
Dual Diagnosis and is associated with barriers to obtaining conventional treatment. 
This is a condition when compared to mental health alone has a high morbidity. 
The interviewees described personal histories of either personal or witnessed domestic violence 
and abuse which had contributed to their mental distress and subsequent substance misuse. 
Results of outcome rating scale monitoring supported that Homeopathic treatment could be able 
to relieve the underlying mental and emotional distress resulting from these painful past histories. 
Most of the respondents who used class ‘A’ drugs injected or smoked them and detailed how this 
behavior had resulted in life-threatening illnesses, including deep vein thromboses, pulmonary emboli 
and abscesses. Results of cases from the drop-in clinic showed that Homeopathic treatment can 
resolve and or complement conventional treatment for these conditions. Respondents described 
their personal shame at how they felt society views them and which resulted in unstable accommodation,
separation from children, and other individuals taking their drugs or money. 
These factors can culminate in a cycle of addiction, self-neglect and physical and mental ill-health. 
Comparison with the cycle of change showed that Homeopathy is able to offer an effective treatment 
at every stage of this cycle.
Conclusions: This client group does have a multiplicity of complex health needs rather than two 
distinct diagnoses. The range and interdependency of health problems and pressures suggest this 
group is best supported with integrated multi-agency services that work flexibly across all areas of 
their lives. This study provides supportive evidence that Homeopathic treatment could have a wide 
scope of effective intervention methodologies and deserves to be considered in this approach.