What percentage of the population does not receive treatment for their comorbid disorders? Group of answer choices
12%
30%
42%
90%
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: 42%
A significant portion of individuals with comorbid disorders do not receive treatment, and research shows that about 42% of people with comorbid mental health and substance use disorders go untreated.
Comorbid disorders refer to the co-occurrence of two or more disorders in the same person. The most common types include combinations of mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety, with substance use disorders like alcohol or drug dependence. These overlapping conditions create complex treatment challenges and often require integrated approaches to care. Despite the complexity and severity of such conditions, many affected individuals do not receive adequate treatment.
Several factors contribute to the high percentage of untreated comorbid conditions. First, stigma surrounding mental health and addiction plays a major role. People often hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgment or discrimination. Second, there is often a lack of awareness or recognition of symptoms. A person may seek help for one condition, like depression, but not realize they also have a substance use problem, or vice versa. Third, systemic barriers such as cost, lack of insurance coverage, or a shortage of qualified mental health professionals can prevent individuals from accessing the care they need.
Additionally, many treatment systems remain fragmented, focusing on either mental health or substance use, but not both. This makes it difficult for patients to get coordinated and effective care. The failure to treat both disorders simultaneously often leads to poor outcomes, such as higher rates of relapse, hospitalization, and even suicide.
Addressing this issue requires an integrated healthcare model, public education, improved screening procedures, and policies that expand access to comprehensive treatment. Reducing the untreated percentage is essential to improving overall public health and individual quality of life.