ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the key issues for the person experiencing co-existing mental health and substance use problems. Here, we explore some of the reasons why people experiencing mental health problems use substances and identify the processes involved when a person attempts to make changes to their substance use. Understanding the motivations for using substances, the nature of change and recognizing the long-term nature of work with individuals with co-existing problems reduces the likelihood of professionals becoming frustrated in
their interactions with clients. This increases the likelihood of worker and client remaining positively engaged in therapeutic relationships.
