Treatment of comorbid substance use and anxiety disorders: a case study.

Abstract

This case study of combined anxiety with both alcohol and benzodiazepine dependence illustrates key issues in presentation, differential diagnosis and management. The case is discussed from a biopsychosocial perspective with each of the discussants focusing on their particular area of experience and expertise, then the treatment package is presented in an integrated fashion. Of particular interest is how social anxiety disorder may become a significant barrier to engagement and retention, and thus outcome in persons presenting for addiction treatment, and how a treatment plan for such patients can be built.