As previously discussed, a mental health crisis can be the result of a mental health or substance use issue, but what happens when a person is experiencing both? When both a mental health and substance use issue are present, the two are said to be co-occurring, meaning they coexist and can exacerbate one another. Additionally, psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia can mimic the effects of substance use. For these reasons, it can be difficult to decipher what is happening in any given crisis scenario. The individual could be demonstrating drug-induced behaviors, having a psychotic episode, or both. Ultimately, mental health crisis responders do not diagnose; however, in order to make the best possible decisions during the response, they must understand that the crisis could be due to a combination of factors. Navigating Complex Mental Health Crises- Understanding Co-Occurring Factors in Crisis Navigating Complex Mental Health Crises- Understanding Co-Occurring Factors in Crisis In this
How Signs and Symptoms Indicate More of a Substance Use Issue or More of a Mental Health Issue
The symptoms and signs displayed by Reggie in the scenario indicate a significant overlap between substance use and mental health difficulties, making it difficult to attribute the crisis to one or the other. His history of alcoholism, unwillingness to attend Alcoholics Anonymous, and reliance on chemicals as a coping strategy all indicate a serious problem with substance abuse. Reggie’s paranoid ideas, auditory hallucinations, and steadfast refusal of psychiatric medicine all point to underlying mental health disorders, possibly psychotic in origin. The interconnected nature of these co-occurring disorders highlights the significance of a comprehensive and integrated approach to Reggie’s care. Any intervention should take into account both components, understanding the potential interplay between substance use and mental health concerns and attempting to create trust with Reggie to encourage engagement in treatment for both difficulties. A thorough examination by mental health professionals is essential for gaining a comprehensive knowledge of Reggie’s condition and developing a specific intervention strategy that addresses both substance use and mental health issues.
Most Important First Action to Take in Crisis Response
The most important initial step in this crisis reaction is prioritizing Reggie’s immediate safety and building confidence. Given his paranoid ideas, auditory hallucinations, and aversion to treatment, maintaining a secure atmosphere is critical. Louise should approach Reggie with empathy, respect his fears, and be genuinely interested in understanding his point of view. Trust will lay the groundwork for effective communication and later interventions. Building a therapeutic alliance early on is critical for successful crisis intervention and establishes the framework for additional assessment and support (Tremain et al., 2019). Furthermore, making Reggie feel heard and appreciated can assist in preventing possible escalation and establishing a feeling of teamwork in treating both his substance use and mental health concerns
References
Catthoor, K., & Dom, G. (2022). Psychotic Disorders and Substance Abuse Comorbidity: Characteristics and Treatment. Springer EBooks, 57–73. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-09058-5_3
As previously discussed, a mental health crisis can be the result of a mental health or substance use issue, but what happens when a person is experiencing both? When both a mental health and substance use issue are present, the two are said to be co-occurring, meaning they coexist and can exacerbate one another. Additionally, psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia can mimic the effects of substance use. For these reasons, it can be difficult to decipher what is happening in any given crisis scenario. The individual could be demonstrating drug-induced behaviors, having a psychotic episode, or both. Ultimately, mental health crisis responders do not diagnose; however, in order to make the best possible decisions during the response, they must understand that the crisis could be due to a combination of factors. Navigating Complex Mental Health Crises- Understanding Co-Occurring Factors in Crisis Navigating Complex Mental Health Crises- Understanding Co-Occurring Factors in Crisis In this
How Signs and Symptoms Indicate More of a Substance Use Issue or More of a Mental Health Issue
The symptoms and signs displayed by Reggie in the scenario indicate a significant overlap between substance use and mental health difficulties, making it difficult to attribute the crisis to one or the other. His history of alcoholism, unwillingness to attend Alcoholics Anonymous, and reliance on chemicals as a coping strategy all indicate a serious problem with substance abuse. Reggie’s paranoid ideas, auditory hallucinations, and steadfast refusal of psychiatric medicine all point to underlying mental health disorders, possibly psychotic in origin. The interconnected nature of these co-occurring disorders highlights the significance of a comprehensive and integrated approach to Reggie’s care. Any intervention should take into account both components, understanding the potential interplay between substance use and mental health concerns and attempting to create trust with Reggie to encourage engagement in treatment for both difficulties. A thorough examination by mental health professionals is essential for gaining a comprehensive knowledge of Reggie’s condition and developing a specific intervention strategy that addresses both substance use and mental health issues.
Most Important First Action to Take in Crisis Response
The most important initial step in this crisis reaction is prioritizing Reggie’s immediate safety and building confidence. Given his paranoid ideas, auditory hallucinations, and aversion to treatment, maintaining a secure atmosphere is critical. Louise should approach Reggie with empathy, respect his fears, and be genuinely interested in understanding his point of view. Trust will lay the groundwork for effective communication and later interventions. Building a therapeutic alliance early on is critical for successful crisis intervention and establishes the framework for additional assessment and support (Tremain et al., 2019). Furthermore, making Reggie feel heard and appreciated can assist in preventing possible escalation and establishing a feeling of teamwork in treating both his substance use and mental health concerns
References
Catthoor, K., & Dom, G. (2022). Psychotic Disorders and Substance Abuse Comorbidity: Characteristics and Treatment. Springer EBooks, 57–73. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-09058-5_3