ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the relationship between mental health and alcohol use within the practice area. Living with and experiencing mental health problems can be disabling for the person, cause great anguish and frustration and may lead a person to the brink of despair and desperation. The stigma attached to someone experiencing mental health problems can sometimes be just as debilitating as the label of mental illness. Common mental health problems are sometimes described as ‘less serious conditions’. Statistics for mental health–substance use problems have identified an increase in people seeking help, advice and treatment. Professionals working within mental health services should always ask about alcohol use and complete a risk assessment. There are many social problems associated with heavy or binge drinking and this may lead to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression or suicidal thoughts. People present differently and they will have various tolerance levels and a variety of mental health problems.
