Substance Abuse: A Case Study

Substance abuse considered as a strong risk factor for non-adherence among patients with mental illness, the MHN would have to make a treatment plan addressing his cannabis use and that will help him long term. It is significant to assess the patient for substance use to know how much and how long they have been using and to encourage them to seek treatment (Macaluso & Mcknight, 2013). Different screening, diagnosis, and treatment for substance abuse are important. A combination of Psychopharmacological and Psychotherapeutic interventions shows significant improvement in the treatment outcomes (Manseau & Bogenschutz, 2016).

In one study, it has shown that many Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous groups do not involve discussion of Psychiatric medication during the meetings. The uses of “Dual focus” groups are encouraged for individuals with mental illness and Substance use. Dual focus involves both the addiction treatment specialist and mental health professional in discussing the issue of substance use and mental illness (Macaluso & Mcknight, 2013).

With George’s substance use practice, the MHN would then continue to provide psychoeducation through group therapies regarding the different effects of cannabis use in his treatment and at the same time gives George’s an
Psychoeducation for both the patient and family members is effective and useful in improving treatment outcomes. Education and supportive environment can greatly encourage and enables self-management and patient’s involvement in care (Chien et al., 2013). Engaging family plays a key role in changing patient’s attitude towards medication adherence. Patients often require social support system access and involving the family can help assist the patient in making a decision. Patients who adhere to medication are usually the ones who have family support and involvement in care (Macaluso & Mcknight,