ADDICTION ISSUES

Approximately 70 per cent of people with mental health issues also
struggle with drugs and alcohol, and there needs to be greater
understanding that the two disorders are often entwined, says one
of 12 new therapists hired throughout the Fraser Health Authority
(FHA).

"People use alcohol and drugs because they work," says Debbie
Suian, whose new job is to raise awareness about the link between
mental health issues and addictions among health providers and
the community.

Suian will be developing guidelines, providing training and
networking with her colleagues and will also work directly with
clients. She sees her role as a bridge between the mental health
and addictions service areas so a stronger community of care is
available to clients needing support for dual disorders when the
price of using drugs and alcohol become too high.

"Often they arrive fearful, ambivalent, sometimes full of despair,
and it's our job to help restore their faith, especially in themselves,
and to help them get to where they want to be," Suian said.

There are many parallels between addiction and mental health
issues - both are a biological illness, use a common language,
have similar symptoms, generate feelings of shame and stigma. At
the same time, similar treatment principles can provide similar
phases of recovery.

The new position of concurrent disorders therapist was created as
part of efforts to make mental health and addictions services more
effective after the FHA took over responsibility from the provincial
government, according to a press release.