Adolescent Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Adolescence is the peak period for initiation of substance use.  Levels and frequency of substance use begin to increase in mid-adolescence and peak in very early adulthood.  Interestingly, age of onset is strikingly similar across high-income countries. The genetic predisposition of substance use will also be discussed.
There is a strong correlation between adolescent substance use and mental health disorders.  These relationships and integrated treatment approaches will be discussed and clinicians will be introduced to evidenced based practices. 

Educational Objectives

Objectives:

After completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Understand the genetic predisposition of becoming addicted when substance use begins.
• Discuss evidence-based interventions and recommendations for improving treatment.
• Describe why adolescence is a key period in the pathogenesis of addiction.
• Explain the prevalence and clinical importance of co-occurring disorders.

3.5 CE’s for:

• DMH – Licensed Administrator
• DMH – Addiction Therapist
• DMH – Community Support Specialist
• DMH – Mental Health Therapist
• DMH – Peer Support Specialist
• MAAP – Mississippi Association of Addiction Professionals
• NBCC/LPC – National Board Certified Counselors
• CHES- Certified Health Education Specialist
• CPH – Certified Public Health
• Social Work