Other populations to consider in substance use and addictive behaviours

Some populations with specific diagnoses may be overlooked in screening for substance use or addictive behaviours if clinicians are not aware that prevalence is increased. For example, substance use is more prevalent in people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorderYoung, 2021, autism spectrum disorderKunreuther, 2020 and mild to moderate developmental disabilityDidden, 2020 compared to the general population.

People recently released from prison are very vulnerable to overdose in the first few weeks after release, because of homelessness, poor access to health care and reduced drug tolerance following imprisonment. Help to address this could include prescription of medication-assisted treatment of opioid dependence, or referral to a specialist opioid treatment service. Other social supports that may be relevant include services that address homelessness, domestic violence or gamblingAbbott, 2016. Services Australia has a list of websites to assist with housing, food, legal help and drug and alcohol services, including the free and anonymous AskIzzy website, which people can use in a crisis to find local help.

Consider the occupation of all patients and whether substance use poses a risk, either for themselves or the community. People in whom this may be a concern include commercial vehicle drivers, airline personnel, defence force personnel, healthcare workers, hospitality workers (eg chefs, publicans), mining employees and construction workersGates P, 2013. Resources that may be helpful in supporting people in these occupations are listed in Substance use in occupational groups: additional resources for clinicians. See also Fitness to drive and disorders of substance use and Occupational implications of disorders of substance use.