Status
Collection
Library Notes
Description
Having concurrent substance use and mental health problems obviously affects the person experiencing the problems directly, but they also have powerful effects on family members and friends. Families need help to deal with the impact of concurrent disorders, but families are also a key to finding effective solutions. Part I is an overview of concurrent disorders, an introduction to treatment options and information about substance use problems, mental health problems and how they interact. Part II focuses on the impact of concurrent disorders on family life. It includes information on self-care strategies for family members and understanding and coping with the effects of stigma. Part III explores treatment and support for people affected by concurrent disorders. It includes strategies for navigating the mental health and substance use treatment systems, information about psychosocial and medication treatment options, recognizing and planning for relapses, and anticipating and coping with crisis situations. Part IV talks about the journey to recovery.… (more)
Library's review
Tell us what you thought about the book / title. How did the book make you feel? What did you learn?
This book has a lot of valuable information regarding different concurrent disorders and the effects family and friends suffer because of them. This
What were some of your favourite parts in the book/title? What did you find the most useful? Why?
I enjoyed the extensive collection of resources included in the book to help readers cope, destress, identify problems and engage in future planning. There was a lot of different lists/ grids/ surveys included to help readers on paths to recovery. A lot of these were really simple to use and beneficial to me as a member of an individual with a concurrent disorder.
What was your least favourite aspect of the book/title? What do you think could have been better?
I would have appreciated if the book went into greater detail regarding mental health disorders as I found some of the definitions lacking. Also, the book mentions it has a coping with crisis situations section included. However, I do not think the authors went into enough detail for this section. I do not believe reading this section of the book adequately prepares anyone for a crisis situation, it merely provides a minimal amount of tips for someone in one.
What inspired you to choose this title?
I was partly inspired to choose this title as it is made in collaboration with the CAMH. I was also inspired is it is a Canadian made book.
How has your life (or the life of your loved one) been affected by reading this title?
I believe this book has helped me understand my family member's mental health diagnosis better. This has helped me understand their actions and behaviours more deeply.
Do you recommend any similar titles to this one?
Now What?: An Insider's Guide to Addiction and Recovery