ABSTRACT
Mood and anxiety disorders are common yet undertreated within the population. As many individuals attempt to live with symptoms of these diagnoses, it is common for themtouse alcohol and other substances to cope. Additionally, aspects of substance use such as withdrawal andintoxication can mimic certain symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment difficult for the untrained counselor. As there are several instances of overlap between various symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders, this chapter will review each diagnosisto identify how these similar diagnoses differ. This chapter will review the commonly used substances thatindividuals may turn to in an attempt to self-medicate such symptoms. This chapter will discuss the benefits of an integrated treatment approach in which the counselor links with additional treatment providers to meet the needs of the client. Finally, this chapter will review various treatment options for those living with co-occurring substance use and mood/anxiety disorders.
