Depression and substance use

Abstract

Depression and substance use disorders (SUD) commonly co-occur in adult [10, 13, 97] and adolescent samples [98, 99]. Epidemiological studies that have begun in childhood and adolescence and followed cohorts over time have provided valuable information on changes in prevalence, trajectories of comorbid associations, and in highlighting key issues about their underlying causal mechanisms. This chapter draws together recent findings in this area, using examples from a wide range of sources to highlight key themes emerging from both adult and adolescent research. We begin with an overview of the concurrent prevalence of depression and SUD in adult and adolescent samples. We then explore longitudinal patterns of depression and SUD comorbidity from adolescence to adulthood to illustrate the varying mechanisms now thought to contribute to this comorbidity. Finally, we consider the implications of these findings for clinical practice.