CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE COOCCURRENCE OF SUBSTANCE USE AND OTHER PSYCHIATRIC-DISORDERS

The co-occurrence of substance use and psychiatric disorders is the ru le rather than the exception in mental health and substance use treatm ent settings across the United States. Such co-occurrence may call for special assessment and evaluation procedures, modified treatment plan s, and specialized follow-up. Treatment of co-occurrence of substance abuse and psychiatric disorders requires more cross-disciplinary colla boration; greater integration of substance use, mental health, and soc ial services treatment approaches; and modifications in the training o f care providers.