People who have a severe mental illness also have a much higher risk of substance abuse in all forms according to a new scientific study. According to the study researchers those who suffer from bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other severe types of mental disorders are far more likely to have substance abuse problems as well, including cigarettes and other forms of tobacco use. Previous studies that examined the link between mental illness and substance abuse did not include those who had a serious and severe mental disorder, and the new studies show that if you have a serious mood disorder or anxiety disorder then you are roughly twice as likely to end up with substance abuse issues as well. The study data was compiled using the information included in the 2012 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, and this data showed that more than 8 million people in the USA alone suffer from both of these conditions.
Even though millions of US citizens have both a serious mental disorder and substance abuse issues less than 10% receive treatment for both conditions and end up with a dual diagnosis and dual treatment plan. The newest findings show what many physicians have previously suspected, that the number of individuals who have severe psychosis and substance abuse issues have been underestimated so far and that the true figures are actually much higher. Some statistics show that a mental disorder may make you 4 times more likely to abuse alcohol, around three and a half times more likely to engage in marijuana use, and over 5 times more likely to smoke cigarettes.
