Impact of co-occurring substance use on 6 month outcomes for young people seeking mental health treatment

Abstract

Objective: 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. Method: One hundred and six young people (aged 15-24 years) with a non-psychotic DSM-IV Axis I disorder were assessed following referral to a specialist youth public mental health service. Participants were given a structured interview, as well as questionnaires assessing drug use, psychopathology, psych..