[Drug addicts with severe mental disorders can be helped by programs using moderate means. Good results when psychiatric, social and drug abuse services cooperate]
Dependency disorders are more common than expected in psychiatric populations. Untreated, dual diagnosis leads to severe social and psychiatric deterioration. Nine treatment resistant, homeless, drug addicts suffering from chronic psychotic disorders were selected to take part in a case management program, integrating social services with regular psychiatric treatment. All but one were greatly improved in general terms as well as regarding their ability to maintain an ordered life style. The need for institutional care decreased dramatically.