Mental Health Needs of Young People with Problematic Drug and Alcohol Use in Manchester

Abstract EN

Background.

Studies have indicated possible links between substance use disorder and other psychiatric disorders and suggested a high prevalence of unmet mental health needs amongst those with substance use disorders compared to the general population.

Method.

The study investigated the mental health needs of adolescents attending a substance misuse service.

Mental health needs were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Conners screen for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and a brief measure ascertaining demographics, drug use, and the service required by young people.

Results.

Young people were found to have higher than normal rates of mental health problems; this was not reflected in referral rates from the service.

Conclusion.

The findings are relevant to both commissioners and service providers.

There is a need for integration between mental health services and those working with young substance users to provide a model of care that caters for dual diagnosis.

Furthermore, offering mental health training to teams working with drug-using young people is recommended.