A family guide to concurrent disorders

Concurrent substance use and mental health problems affect the person experiencing the problems, and also his or her family members and friends. Families need help to deal with the impact of concurrent disorders, but families are also a key to finding effective solutions. This guide can help families to support their family member with concurrent disorders, and also to support themselves.

Based on materials developed for a family education support group at CAMH, The Family Guide to Concurrent Disorders includes:

• • information about substance use problems, mental health problems and how they interact
• • information on the impact of concurrent disorders on family life, on self-care strategies for family members and understanding and coping with the effects of stigma
• • an exploration of options for treatment and support for people affected by concurrent disorders, including psychosocial and medication treatment
• • tips on recognizing and planning for relapses, and on anticipating and coping with crisis situations
• • guidance on the journey to recovery.