ABSTRACT
Young adults experiencing mental health–substance use problems tend to have quite an extensive treatment history, starting with substance use at a young age and experiencing mental health problems in their youth. A common goal for many young adults experiencing mental health–substance use problems is to learn to adopt healthier coping strategies to help with difficulties in complex social situations or to fill in boredom and emptiness. Many young adults experiencing mental health–substance use problems have difficulties engaging in treatment. In many countries services are fragmented, with little expertise in the treatment of substance use disorders in mental health facilities, and vice versa. An integrative approach to the treatment of mental health–substance use problems includes the establishment of motivational groups, which apply a stage-wise, supportive and collaborative approach to group therapy. Family interventions at the stage aim to modify stressful communication styles that may exacerbate mental health symptoms and increase substance use.
