Dual diagnosis training: A six step approach to curriculum development

Dual diagnosis is the term used to refer the co-existence of substance misuse and mental disorder in one person. The extent of dual diagnosis in India is mentioned in Indian studies since 1970’s. Educating service providers working within the addictions and mental health service were also recommended by several researchers in the past. Similar situation arose in Ireland in 2004 when for the first time the word dual diagnosis was mentioned in one of the national documents. Training and education of dual diagnosis service providers were highlighted in the document however little has been done in this regard. In 2008, the authors developed the first ever training on dual diagnosis. In this article we have made an attempt to explain the six stages adapted in preparation of the training course. It is envisaged that similar training course may be developed in India to meet the needs of dual diagnosis service providers.