Mind the Gaps: Navigating Concurrent Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders

In Canada, one in three people will experience mental illness in their lifetime.

Concurrent disorders are defined as co-occurring substance use disorders with other mental health conditions. For example, up to 40% of people who are diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder will also have a co-occurring substance use disorder. Despite the prevalence of concurrent disorders, people who live with them tend to be under-diagnosed and under-treated. When care is provided, conditions are often treated separately rather than in an integrated way.

Currently, there is a lack of understanding about the unique needs of people with concurrent disorders. We need to advance our understanding of how mental health and substance use disorders interact to develop better, more effective treatment approaches.

Objectives:

• Recognize the gaps and challenges in diagnosing and treating concurrent disorders.
• Explore the latest research on creating more personalized treatment approaches.
• Raise awareness of innovative treatments and opportunities for future research.

This is a free, public event. A moderated discussion will be followed by a live Q&A with audience members. A recording will be available following the event.