Mental Health
Association in NYS, Inc.

194 Washington Avenue
Suite 415
Albany, New York 12210
Tel: 518.434.0439
Fax: 518.427.8676
www.mhanys.org

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• Youth who use illicit drugs are almost three times more likely to be at risk for suicide than those who do not use drugs (National Household Survey on Drug Abuse --- 7/12/02).

• Psychiatric disorders frequently go untreated among adolescents with co-occurring disorders, thus reducing the likelihood of successful engagement in substance abuse treatment (Riggs, Paula D. (2003). Treating adolescents for substance abuse and comorbid psychiatric disorders. Science & Practice Perspectives, August).

• Adolescents with substance abuse problems report a greater number and variety of symptoms of psychiatric distress than those who do not abuse substances (Shrier, Harris, Kurland, Knight (2003). Substance use problems and associated psychiatric symptoms among adolescents in primary care. Pediatrics, 111).

• Early identification and intervention with youth substance abuse problems may prevent either substance dependence (addiction) or any associated psychiatric symptoms from progressing to more severe levels (Shrier, Harris, Kurland, Knight (2003). Substance use problems and associated psychiatric symptoms among adolescents in primary care. Pediatrics, 111, ).