Report to Congress - Nov 2002
		REPORT TO CONGRESS ON THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF CO-OCCURRING SUBSTANCE ABUSE DISORDERS AND MENTAL DISORDERS
		Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Chapter 3 - Prevention of Co-Occurring Disorders - Summary

Summary

The development of co-occurring substance abuse disorders and mental disorders in individuals of all ages is a multi-faceted problem influenced by interrelated risk and protective factors. For youth and adolescents, particularly those with emotional disorders, comprehensive prevention programs that are family-focused, culturally appropriate, and offered on a long-term basis have been shown to reduce problem behaviors, increase family cohesion and effective parenting, and decrease substance use/abuse. Adults and older adults are no less in need of prevention services. Key developmental tasks and major life changes may precipitate mental health problems and/or substance abuse in vulnerable individuals. Older adults are at risk for prescription drug misuse and alcohol-related problems, as well as depression and suicide. Prevention programs that feature outreach and support can help increase the protective factors that mitigate against these outcomes.