ABSTRACT
We have provided practical chapters which are clinically relevant, which clinicians can pick up and use relatively quickly. In doing so, we have deliberately not emphasized theoretical issues. As the evidence base for most co-existing mental health and drug and alcohol problems is only just emerging, we recognize that many of the recommendations made in this book will require revision as further evidence is gathered. In this chapter we highlight some of the central and common themes that have emerged across the chapters of this book. The fact that there are common themes here is all the more remarkable, given that they have cropped up in relation to disparate clinical topics and from clinicians in various settings and different countries with very different health services. We also take the opportunity to discuss ideas for further research and clinical innovation.
