Psychiatric Diagnosis in Alcohol and Drug Dependence

AbstractComorbidity of psychiatric disorders and alcohol and drug dependence occurs commonly. As determined by studies in the general and patient populations the prevalence rate for both types of disorders is high. Moreover, the difficulty of the treatment course is likely to be greater when such comorbidity exists. It is important to note that both intoxication and withdrawal from alcohol and drugs produce psychiatric symptoms and syndromes that may be confused with psychiatric disorders. The diagnosis and treatment of the addicted patient with a comorbid psychiatric disorder are particularly challenging to the clinician. Studies show that a high prevalence of alcohol and drug dependence occurs in medical and psychiatric populations, whereas the prevalence of psychiatric disorders is less common in alcoholics and drug addicts.