Guiding Principles for Managing Co-occurring Alcohol/Other Drug and Mental Health Conditions: a Scoping Review

Abstract

This scoping review aimed to synthesise the published literature on guiding principles for managing co-occurring alcohol/other drug (AOD) and mental health conditions in AOD treatment settings. Systematic search of key electronic databases (January 1, 2010, to February 17, 2021) produced 4583 articles, and independent title/abstract and full text screening left 43 articles for inclusion. Fifteen guiding principles were identified, most commonly: build a strong therapeutic relationship (n = 24 articles), provide holistic care (n = 12), involve peer support (n = 7), ensure continuity of care (n = 6), support the professional development and competence of workers (n = 6), and provide trauma-informed care (n = 5). Remaining principles were identified in < 5 articles. Limited empirical literature examined the impact of guiding principles on patient- and treatment-related outcomes. This review provides the first comprehensive synthesis of the international literature to derive guiding principles for managing co-occurring AOD and mental health conditions in AOD treatment. Further empirical research is needed to determine the effectiveness of principles at improving outcomes.