The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry
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Aust N Z J Psychiatry · Nov 2007
Comparative StudyImpact of co-occurring substance use on 6 month outcomes for young people seeking mental health treatment.
Co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders are highly prevalent among young people attending services, yet few studies have examined the effect of such comorbidity among those referred for treatment. The aim of the current study was to examine the impact of co-occurring substance use disorders (SUDs) on 6 month outcomes for young people seeking mental health treatment. ⋯ The present findings are consistent with studies examining the impact of co-occurring substance use and mental health issues across different treatment settings, and reinforce recommendations that young people with co-occurring disorders require more intensive and integrated interventions. The present findings also highlight the need for routine assessment and management of substance use issues within youth mental health settings.