Published online by Cambridge University Press: 07 November 2014
Epidemiologic studies have shown a significantly greater likelihood of substance misuse in persons with psychiatric disorders. One of the largest studies showed that 60.7% of people with bipolar I disorder had a lifetime diagnosis of a substance use disorder (SUD). Moreover, 32% of individuals with any mood disorder, including depression, were found to suffer from substance abuse or dependence. In general population surveys, it has been found that the presence of a mood disorder at least doubles the odds of having SUD.