Green, A. I. & Khokhar, J. Y. (2018). Addiction and schizophrenia: A translational perspective. Schizophrenia Research, 194, 1–3. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.schres.2017.10.008

Arizona State University

Individuals with psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizotypal disorder, and delusional disorder, have high rates of comorbid substance use disorders, with individuals with schizophrenia having a 5 times higher rate of substance use disorders than the general population. The abuse of substances in people with psychotic disorders is associated with worse symptomatic and functional outcomes including increased rates of hospitalization and relapses, more treatment non-adherence, increased violence, unstable housing/homelessness, brain volume loss, and higher rates of suicide.

Substance Use Disorder and Psychotic Disorders

Addiction and Schizophrenia

This study aimed to find the prevalence of substance abuse in individuals with psychotic disorders. Results of this study found that the lifetime prevalence of one or more categories of substance abuse and dependence was 39.8% for all psychoses and 42.1% for schizophrenia. The study also found that males were more likely to have a comorbid substance use disorder than females, and younger age groups reported higher use of illegal drugs. 

A Study on the Prevalence of Comorbid Substance Use Disorder and Psychotic Disorders

Integrated treatment is commonly regarded as the most effective form of treatment for individuals with a comorbid Psychotic Disorder and Substance Use Disorder. Integrated treatment involves a combination of treatments from the mental health and addiction fields, including medications and psychosocial treatments, with the aim of treating both disorders in a single treatment program.

Integrated Treatment for Psychotic Disorder and Substance Use Disorder

Since substance use alone can cause psychosis, mania, depression, and cognitive impairment, it is important for all individuals displaying psychiatric symptoms to be screened for substance use. 

In this article, researchers suggested that clinicians should follow these steps:
1. Ask screening questions to determine the quantity, intensity, and frequency of substance use.
2. Request a urine test.
3. Procure self-report questionnaires or structured interviews to uncover potential needs to examine further
4. Examine for negative consequences of substance use.


Screening for Substance Use Disorder in Individuals with Schizophrenia

To develop effective treatment plans it is important to assess one’s willingness to change their behavior. Many individuals with schizophrenia display relatively low motivation to address their substance use disorder. Some tools clinicians can use to determine motivation include:

-- Prochaska and DiClemente’s Five-stage Model of Readiness to Change: Individuals fall into one of five stages (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance)

-- Importance, Confidence, and Readiness to Quit Ruler: Includes a 0 to 10 scale assessment of three factors (importance of quitting, confidence in quitting, and readiness to quit)

-- Decisional Balance: Involves discussing the pros and cons of substance use.

-- Dual Recovery Status Exam: Involves ongoing assessment of psychiatric and addiction symptoms



Assessing Motivation for Change in Individuals with Comorbid Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder

Since this population is often less amenable to treatment, it is important to keep the patient involved in their treatment planning. The initial treatment plan should concentrate on small, yet meaningful goals that are achievable and reflect the patient’s willingness to change.

The complete treatment plan should include a comprehensive medical assessment, choice of therapy options and medication, ongoing assessment and revision of goals, monitoring of treatment adherence, and strategies for managing ongoing psychiatric issues, interactions between substance use and the psychotic disorder, and related medical issues. Whenever possible, treatment should also include family and friends since strong support systems are important for psychiatric stability and long-term sobriety.

Treatment Planning for Individuals with Comorbid Substance Use Disorders and Psychotic Disorders

There are five fundamental principles that should guide psychosocial intervention for individuals with comorbid psychotic disorder and substance use disorder:

1. Create a supportive therapeutic alliance and work to increase motivation to change.


2. Integrate psychosocial treatments for addictions with mental health psychosocial treatments.


3. Aid the patient in obtaining abstinence and recovery skills.


4. Encourage positive support from others (attendance of 12-step meetings).


5. Employ short-term case management approaches during difficult periods to promote treatment adherence and increase retention. 


Psychosocial Interventions for Comorbid Psychotic Disorder and Substance Use Disorder

Medication is one of the most critical components of treatment for psychotic disorders. However, for individuals with a dual diagnosis of psychotic disorder and substance use disorder, clinicians must consider new treatment options and strategies that are beneficial for the prognosis of both disorders.

Pharmacotherapy for Comorbid Psychotic Disorder and Substance Use Disorder

Based on the provided case study, analyze the interplay between the patient's pre-existing condition and their new behavior. Identify and explain the two most likely negative functional outcomes the patient will face if this pattern continues, drawing direct connections between the substance use and the potential consequences.

Analyzing Comorbidity Outcomes

Based on the information provided in the case study, analyze the most likely reason for this individual's poor treatment outcomes and instability. Explain the relationship between their substance use and the management of their psychotic disorder.

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