Drug and alcohol dependence and psychiatric populations: the need for diagnosis, intervention, and training

The comorbidity of psychiatric disorders and alcohol and drug dependence is high. The prevalence rate for each disorder is high as determined by studies in general and patient populations. Moreover, the severity of the course is likely to be greater when the two disorders are combined, prompting the attention of clinicians and researchers. Of importance, the intoxication and withdrawal from alcohol and drugs produce psychiatric symptoms and syndromes that can mimic psychiatric disorders. The prevalence rates for comorbidity of both categories of disorders vary according to the populations studied, methodological approaches used, and duration of longitudinal follow-up postdiagnosis of the disorders. It is evident from a review of the literature that there is a growing urgency for proper diagnosis, improved training programs, and treatment intervention strategies for alcohol and drug dependence in psychiatric populations. Suggestions for broad assessment and specific interventions for alcohol/drug dependence in psychiatric settings are offered, and increased time in psychiatric residency training is recommended.