Psychosis with Coexisting Substance Misuse

Around 40% of people experiencing psychosis also misuse drugs or alcohol at some point in their lives, which can complicate treatment and lead to serious health and social problems. This gives recommendations on how to best manage people with psychosis and coexisting substance misuse so they receive evidence-based care for both conditions.

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Around
40% of people experiencing psychosis also misuse substances at some point in
their lives, which can lead to serious health and social problems for the
person and complicate their treatment.





This
new guideline covers the assessment and management of adults and young people
(aged 14 years and older) who have a clinical diagnosis of psychosis
(schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or other affective psychosis) and coexisting
substance misuse (harmful use of any psychotropic substance including alcohol
and legal or illicit drugs).





Although
separate NICE guidelines have been
developed for the management of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and drug and
alcohol misuse, the importance of this new guideline on psychosis and substance
misuse is in offering advice on how to integrate treatment for people with these
commonly coexisting conditions.





The
guideline includes comprehensive reviews of assessment, care pathways and
service delivery models, psychological and pharmacological interventions for
both conditions, and treatment and services for young people.