CRSS Understanding Co-Occurring Disorders 2

Question 1

Which term is now preferred over 'dual diagnosis' when describing someone with both a mental health and substance use disorder?

Accepted Answer

Co-occurring disorders

Answer

Co-occurring disorders is the preferred, non-stigmatizing term used in modern recovery support practice.

Question 2

A peer with severe depression frequently uses alcohol to feel better temporarily. This pattern best illustrates which theory?

Accepted Answer

Self-medication hypothesis

Answer

The self-medication hypothesis proposes that individuals use substances to relieve untreated psychiatric symptoms.

Question 3

When supporting someone with co-occurring disorders, the most effective service model integrates which two components?

Accepted Answer

Mental health treatment and substance use treatment simultaneously

Answer

Integrated treatment addresses both conditions at the same time by the same treatment team for better outcomes.

Question 4

A recovery support specialist notices a peer's anxiety worsens every time they stop using marijuana. What should the specialist do first?

Accepted Answer

Encourage the peer to discuss this pattern with their treatment provider

Answer

RSS professionals facilitate connections to clinical care; they do not diagnose or prescribe courses of treatment.

Question 5

PTSD and alcohol use disorder frequently co-occur. Which direction of influence is most commonly observed?

Accepted Answer

PTSD symptoms often precede and drive alcohol use

Answer

Research consistently shows that trauma exposure and resulting PTSD symptoms often precede problematic alcohol use.

CRSS - Certified Recovery Support Specialist Practice Test