In most cases, those affected by mental health conditions will identify with one condition as being the cause of their problems, while there is a high likelihood that they will be affected by two or more mental health conditions. These conditions will usually impact upon each other, and in treatment, the best practice will be to identify them and work with the client using in an integrated approach. In particular, addictions and other mental health conditions commonly coexist, with the result that either the addiction or the mental health condition impact upon each other to deepen the severity of either or both conditions. Coexisting mental health conditions may increase risk for addictions, act as a barrier to their treatment, and increase relapse rates if they not addressed in an integrated manner with the addiction treatment.

The need for identification of coexisting mental health and substance use disorders amongst those presenting in specialist mental health and addiction services is an important process to effectively address the impact of these conditions.

Abacus offers half day introductory or more intensive one-day programmes for:

1. Mental health workers effectively addressing coexisting mental health and substance use disorders
2. Alcohol and other drug workers effectively addressing coexisting substance use disorders and mental health conditions

The programmes will cover:

• Evidence for addressing coexisting conditions and effectiveness of integrated interventions
• Screening for mental health and/or substance use disorders
• Assessment
• Treatment planning
• Collaborative and single site approaches: when to refer
• Working with clients/patients with coexisting conditions
• Developing skills and coping behaviours
• Service needs and appropriate client/patient environment
• Exercises, role plays

Delivery of the training will be provided by experienced registered mental health professionals, with client examples providing illustration of key points. An NZQA registered certificate of attendance will be provided upon completion.