Considering layering medication and psychosocial treatment for people with co-occurring opioid use and mental health disorders: What improves outcomes?

Opioid use has increased dramatically over the past two decades. The prevalence rate for opioid use disorder is higher among people with co-occurring mental health disorders as compared to the general population. Integrated multi-component behavioral interventions for individuals with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders (COD) are optimal for addressing the diverse needs of people with COD. However, engagement in treatment is a large issue for this population. Additionally, although medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is the gold standard of care for people with opioid use disorder, patients’ engagement in MOUD treatment also remains low among those with a COD. Read the full article here.