What is the connection between personality disorder and substance misuse?
It has been suggested that the combination of personality disorder and street drug or alcohol misuse is the most common form of Dual diagnosis (when substance misuse and mental illness occur together). Young People with personality disorder are particularly at risk. According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, a recent study found that 15% of 16-24 year olds with personality disorder report using a drug in the last year. People with a diagnosis of a cluster B personality disorder are more likely to misuse substances. There are many reasons why people with personality disorders and other mental health problems turn to drugs and or alcohol. They may feel anxious or wish to ‘block out’ symptoms or side-effects of various medications. They may feel bored and isolated, lonely, marginalised and depressed. They may have sleeping difficulties or hope to boost their self-confidence and feel ‘normal’. Rethinks believes it’s important that the mental health services and drug and alcohol agenc
