Assessment and Treatment of Anxiety Disorders and Co-Morbid Alcohol/Other Drug Dependency

Abstract

Current models of assessment and treatment of co-morbid Axis I anxiety disorders and chemical dependency are examined. Since the scope of this class of disorder is so heterogeneous, the most encountered disorders are discussed, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); Panic Disorder (PD); Social Phobia; Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD); and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Problems encountered in past approaches to this dual diagnosis population are explored. Proposals for methods of differential diagnosis, comprehensive assessment and various modalities of service delivery are made. A discussion regarding current methodology liabilities and strengths follow a synopsis of current research.

Key Words:

• Dual diagnosis
• anxiety disorders
• chemical dependency