What does the term 'dually-diagnosed' refer to in substance abuse treatment?

The term 'dually-diagnosed' specifically refers to a client who presents with both a substance use disorder and one or more co-occurring psychiatric disorders. This classification recognizes that individuals struggling with substance abuse often face additional mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, which can complicate their treatment.

Understanding this concept is crucial in substance abuse treatment, as it highlights the need for an integrated approach that addresses both the addiction and the mental health issues simultaneously. Treatment strategies must be tailored to account for the interactions between the substances being misused and the psychiatric symptoms being experienced, leading to better outcomes for the client.

The other choices do not capture the essence of the term 'dually-diagnosed' as accurately. While multiple substance addictions and treatment resistance may be factors affecting an individual’s treatment, they do not encompass the dual complexity of co-occurring mental health conditions alongside substance abuse.