Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of the dually diagnosed adolescent

The intoxicated child

Psychiatric disorders and substance abuse occur frequently together, which leads to difficulty in assessment and treatment. An awareness of the prevalence and manifestations of psychiatric diagnoses is essential for the quality treatment of adolescents who abuse substances. The clinician should keep up-to-date on psychopharmacologic interventions [65, 83]. Frequently, the use of psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and psychostimulants, is beneficial. Care must be taken, however, to avoid potential interactions between the illicit drugs and the prescribed medications [151]. Use of groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or "Double-Trouble" groups, which deal with mentally ill and chemical abusing or dual diagnosis issues, often can be a useful adjunct to treatment with a mental health professional [152-154]. Careful observation, history taking, and appropriate consultation result in better detection and treatment of comorbid medical and psychiatric disorders and the initial substance abuse problem.