Comorbidity
many psychological disorders occur together even though the DSM-5 treats them as separate disorders (ex. depression and anxiety, or depression and substance abuse)
Comorbidity is a term used in medicine and healthcare to describe the existence of multiple medical conditions or diseases in a single patient. It refers to the co-occurrence of two or more medical conditions in the same individual, where each condition can have a different impact on the patient’s physical or mental health.
Comorbidity often presents a complex healthcare challenge for healthcare providers, as a greater degree of medical attention, resources, and coordination is often required for patients with comorbidities. This is because having multiple medical conditions can complicate the diagnosis, treatment, and management of each condition, and can also increase the risk of adverse health outcomes.
Common examples of comorbidities include hypertension and Type 2 diabetes, depression and anxiety, alcoholism and liver disease, and obesity and heart disease. Patients with comorbidities often require regular and comprehensive medical attention to prevent complications and manage their conditions effectively. Effective treatment of comorbidities may involve a multidisciplinary approach, which can involve a range of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, and mental health professionals.
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