SUBSTANCE MISUSE, MENTAL HEALTH, OFFENDING & TRAUMA – article by Dr Cheryl A Rezek & Lucy Harris
We found these articles very interesting and would recommend medical professionals interested in this subject to consider the articles findings. The aim of this article is to draw together the triad of substance misuse, mental health and offending, and to explore the links that it has with trauma, as the literature is scant when this dimension is added.
It overviews some of the considerations and implications for treatment interventions. Addressing the literature from this viewpoint aims to provide an insight into, and stimulate thought and discussion surrounding, the complexity of individuals currently met by forensic and other services.
Dual diagnosis, with respect to co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, has been prevalent for many decades, but it is only more recently that it has been given the full focus and attention that is needed. The accelerating pace of research continues to provide new insight into factors such as the nature, prevalence and treatment of those with dual diagnosis. Of interest to those in the forensic field is the interplay of this diagnosis with offending behaviour. Adding a further dynamic, is that traumatic experiences are frequently evident in histories of individuals who have mental health issues, misuse substances and / or offend, which may serve to exacerbate these factors.
To read the articles in full please click on the attachments.
SUBSTANCE MISUSE, MENTAL HEALTH, OFFENDING & TRAUMA Part1[1]-1