Name one common co-occurring disorder with substance use disorders.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common co-occurring disorders with substance use disorders. This relationship can be explained by several factors. People who experience anxiety may turn to substances as a misguided coping mechanism in an attempt to alleviate their symptoms. Conversely, substance use can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, leading to a vicious cycle of increasing dependence on substances to manage anxiety.

Additionally, the comorbidity of anxiety and substance use disorders is supported by extensive research, which shows that individuals with anxiety are at a higher risk of developing substance use disorders and vice versa. Various types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder, frequently complicate the clinical picture in those seeking treatment for substance use issues, making it crucial for treatment plans to address both problems concurrently for effective recovery.