Long-Term Outcomes of Adolescent Outpatient Treatment for Substance Use Problems: Exploring the Co-occurrence of Mental Health and Substance Use Problems

Abstract Background: Adolescents with substance use problems (SUP) constitute a group expected to face increased mental health problems (MHP). SUP can exacerbate mental health issues while also serving as a coping mechanism. Understanding the interplay between psychological, substance-related, and social factors is crucial for shaping effective interventions for this demographic. This article presents a three-year follow-up study with adolescents who had outpatient treatment for SUP, focusing on MHP and psychiatric conditions. Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence of