Create a case history for a person with an addiction and a mental disorder. Do not include identifying information. Include the following elements in your case history: Analyze the case history and present your diagnosis as related to substance use disorders. Include the following in your diagnosis: Write a 3–4-page report in Word format. Apply APA standards to citation of sources. Use the following file naming convention: LastnameFirstInitial_M3_A2.doc. , deliver your assignment to the .
Case History: Substance Use Disorder and Co-occurring Mental Disorder
Introduction
This case history highlights a 25-year-old individual, referred to as “Patient X,” who presents with a substance use disorder (SUD) and a co-occurring mental disorder. The purpose of this case study is to analyze the patient’s background, symptoms, and behaviors, and provide a diagnosis related to substance use disorders. The information provided has been anonymized to ensure confidentiality.
Patient Background
Patient X comes from an upper-middle-class family and completed a bachelor’s degree in psychology. He comes from a family with a history of alcoholism and other mental health disorders. Patient X started experimenting with drugs during his college years, primarily marijuana and occasionally hallucinogens. However, after experiencing a traumatic event during his sophomore year, Patient X’s substance use escalated rapidly, leading to a growing dependence on various substances.
Symptoms and Behaviors
Patient X’s substance use disorder is characterized by the frequent consumption of substances, difficulty controlling use, and the presence of withdrawal symptoms when trying to abstain. He reports using marijuana daily, along with frequent binges of cocaine and occasional use of prescription opioids. Patient X’s substance use has led to significant impairment in various areas of his life, including academic performance, relationships, and employment opportunities.
Patient X also exhibits symptoms of a co-occurring mental disorder. He meets the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder, as evidenced by persistent sadness, loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of suicide. These symptoms have persisted for more than six months and have had a significant impact on his overall functioning and well-being.
Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder
Based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Patient X can be diagnosed with a substance use disorder. The severity of his disorder can be classified as moderate since he exhibits at least four of the eleven diagnostic criteria. These symptoms include a strong desire to use substances, difficulty controlling substance use, spending excessive time and effort on obtaining substances, and recurrent use leading to failure in fulfilling major obligations.
Clinical Features
Patient X’s substance use disorder is further characterized by continued use despite the presence of persistent social and interpersonal problems. He has repeatedly tried to cut down or control his substance use but has been unsuccessful. Moreover, he experiences intense cravings for substances, which often trigger relapses. Patient X also displays tolerance to the effects of the substances, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effect.
Cultural Considerations
It is important to consider the cultural background of the patient when diagnosing substance use disorders. Patient X comes from a family with a history of alcoholism, which could contribute to genetic predispositions and familial norms surrounding substance use. Moreover, societal acceptance and normalization of substance use, particularly among peers, might influence his attitudes and behaviors towards substances.
Expected Course and Prognosis
Without intervention, the prognosis for Patient X’s substance use disorder is poor. Research has shown that untreated substance use disorders often lead to worsening physical and mental health, legal problems, and social isolation. Additionally, co-occurring mental disorders can exacerbate substance use and vice versa, resulting in a vicious cycle of worsening symptoms and impairment.
Conclusion
Patient X’s case history provides evidence of a moderate substance use disorder and a co-occurring major depressive disorder. The intersectionality of these disorders presents unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. It is imperative for healthcare professionals to acknowledge the complex nature of dual diagnoses and provide integrated interventions to address both the substance use disorder and the mental disorder simultaneously. The next step in Patient X’s treatment journey would involve comprehensive assessment and the development of an individualized treatment plan to promote recovery and improve overall well-being.
