Recognizing the Existence of More Than One Problem

There are specific symptoms that family members, friends, coworkers and professionals can look for to help determine whether there are other problems besides drug use. Identifying other mental or physical health concerns can help a person advocate for specialized services for a client or his or her loved one, friend, or coworker in order to provide for the best care possible. However, identification of these signs or symptoms only warns there may be another problem — it does not tell you what the problem may be. If signs of other problems are noted, you should recommend a comprehensive evaluation by a professional trained in this type of assessment (e.g., a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or mental health professional with similar skills) if you do not feel ready to make that assessment yourself. That way you will know for sure what your client needs help with. 

Rebecca is a 13-year-old student who began to have problems in school recently. Her teacher is convinced that her falling grades show that something is wrong, but she is not sure what. She tells you that Rebecca has been increasingly restless in class, and seems to have difficulty sitting still. In addition, she has noticed that Rebecca is more irritable and does not want to be around others. The teacher also has noted that Rebecca has more acne now than she did a few weeks ago. 

So what is wrong with Rebecca Is she on drugs Does she have Attention Deficit Disorder Was she exposed to alcohol or drugs as a fetus, and now the symptoms are beginning to be noticeable Does she exhibit early symptoms of a major mental disorder Is she abused or neglected at home How would you find out  

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