The prevalence of common mental and substance use disorders in general practice: a literature review and discussion paper

Abstract

Enhanced primary care management of common mental and substance use disorders is a key healthcare target. Though primary care may be well placed to achieve this target, a greater understanding of the prevalence and profile of common mental and substance use disorders in primary care settings is needed. We searched the MEDLINE database (2002–2012) to provide an update on biomedical literature describing the prevalence of common mental and substance use disorders in European general practice. Following “PRISMA” guidelines, 17 studies were kept for qualitative synthesis. Prevalence, profile, screening instruments, associated co-morbidities, and gender distribution were tabulated. Depending on the screening method, the prevalence of common mental and substance use disorders ranged from 10.4% (Luxemburg) to 53.6% (Spain). Mood disorders were the most common. High co-morbidity with anxiety and somatisation hindered early identification and management. The continuing burden of common mental and substance use dis...