Depression and substance abuse

Author/s
Anton Grech, Daniel Vella Fondacaro
Citation
Issue 5 Winter 2018
CEPiP.2018.1.222-225
Abstract

Several studies have shown a significant association between forms of depression and substance abuse. Different substances have been implicated, alcohol being the most prominent. Individuals with depression are twice as likely to have a substance use disorder. Substance use complicates the prognosis of depression and creates a challenge to treatment planning and compliance. There is an increased risk of suicide when depression occurs in association with substance abuse. A multidisciplinary biopsychosocial approach would most probably give the best results in terms of efficacy and effectiveness of management.

Keywords: depression, substance use disorder, alcohol, prognosis, suicide, biopsychosocial

Cite as: Cutting Edge Psychiatry in Practice 2018, 5(1):222-225; https://doi.org/10.65031/ldme5676

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