Recognizing comorbidity among drug users in treatment.

This study identified comorbidity (coexistence of substance abuse and mental health diagnoses) rates and characteristics among 104 clients in a substance abuse treatment setting. To identify commonly collected intake variables that can be used for early identification of drug users with coexisting mental health concerns, participants completed a demographics questionnaire, brief symptom inventory, behavior and symptom identification scale (BASIS-32), and a drug and alcohol assessment. Results revealed a comorbidity rate of 45% and significant relationships between comorbidity and the following variables: absence of prior treatment, greater rates of unemployment, poorer physical health, poorer functioning in a variety of areas, greater symptom severity regarding drug use, poorer mental health, and greater rates of homelessness. Of these, the first four variables were the most powerful predictors of comorbidity. It can be concluded that unemployment without looking for work, difficulties relating to self and others, not having received prior outpatient treatment, and having poorer physical health can signal the possible presence of coexisting mental health problems. Implications for early detection and subsequent treatment planning are discussed.