A Qualitative Study of Addiction Help-Seeking in People with Different Co-occurring Mental Disorders and Substance Use Problems

Abstract

People with mental disorders (MD) have high rates of substance use problems (SUP) that are undertreated and understudied despite their adverse outcomes. The objective of this study is to examine barriers and facilitators that influence help-seeking to addiction treatment from the perspective of people with co-occurring MD and SUP. Forty-three individuals with MD and SUP were selected from the sample (n = 127) of a larger research project. This sub-group participated in semi-structured interviews and completed questionnaires. Interview contents were thematically analyzed using a trajectory approach. Based on participants’ addiction trajectories, two mental health experiences were identified: the “multiple disorders experience” and the “anxiety disorder experience.” The analysis highlighted how participants relate to barriers and facilitators to addiction help-seeking at the individual level (denial/minimization of problematic drug use, fear of being labeled an addict, influence of social networks, and knowledge of addiction services) and health system level (waiting time, costs, relationships with health providers, therapeutic approaches, and availability of psychological support). Interventions should be sensitive to the different experiences of people with MD and SUP. Integrated addiction services and a “no wrong door” approach are suggested.