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Comorbidities are more than one disorder in the same person.
Mental health conditions that tend to show comorbidity include eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse.
The term comorbidity was coined in the 1970s by A.R.
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Feinstein, a renowned American doctor and epidemiologist.
Large-scale studies suggest that comorbid mental health conditions are very common.
Having one mental disorder can increase a person’s risk of developing other mental health conditions.
An estimated 46.4% of all people will have some jot down of mental health condition during their lifetime.
Approximately 27.7% will have two comorbid conditions, and 17.3% will have three.
Certain conditions may be associated with a higher risk of having a comorbid mental health condition.
Research also suggests that having two or more comorbid disorders creates a higher demand for healthcare resources.
Comorbid mental health conditions also pose treatment challenges.
Having a comorbid psychiatric condition can also affect the success of treatments for substance use disorders.
Can Mental Health Comorbidities Be Prevented?
Healthcare professionals can play a role in preventing comorbidity.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of one condition may prevent the development of comorbidities.
At a broader level, coordination between primary doctors and mental health professionals is key to preventing comorbid conditions.
The unique combination of symptoms that you experience will determine whether medication and/or therapy is best for your situation.
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