Dual diagnosis: mental health problems and substance abuse/dependence
Intended for healthcare professionals
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Dual diagnosis: mental health problems and substance abuse/dependence

Professor Kevin Gournay Head of Section of Psychiatric Nursing, Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London. Emily Glorney is a placement student, Institute of Psychiatry/Middlesex University

This article examines the relationship between mental health problems and drug and alcohol abuse. The impact these problems have on the mental health services are discussed, as are the issues of nursing management and interventions

AIMS AND INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

This article examines the relationship between mental health problems and abuse of and dependence on drugs and alcohol. It also examines the impact that ‘dual diagnosis’ patients have on mental health services, and the various issues connected with the care, treatment and management of this condition with specific emphasis on nursing interventions. After reading this article, you should be able to:

Mental Health Practice. 2, 3, 28-35. doi: 10.7748/mhp.2.3.28.s19

This article relates to UKCC Professional Development category: Practice development and Education development

Continuing a major series, the RCN Institute aims to help you earn continuing education points (CEPs). All you have to do is read through the article, follow the instructions in the Time Out boxes, then answer the assessment questions that follow. You have one year to complete the assessment.

• Fill out the enclosed answer sheet and return it to the Freepost address with your fee (£10 RCN members, £15 non-members) by November 1, 1999.

• You will gain five CEPs by successfully completing the assessment.

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