Ethnic differences among a community cohort of individuals with dual diagnosis in South London

Background: Little is known about the characteristics of individuals from Black minority ethnic groups in the UK with psychosis and co-occurring substance misuse. Aim: To examine and compare with a White group the characteristics of a community cohort of dually diagnosed individuals from Black minority ethnic groups. Method: People with psychosis and comorbid substance misuse (dual diagnosis) were identified through structured ratings by case managers. Data regarding their social and clinical characteristics were collected from staff and clients. Results: According to case managers, Black British-born individuals were more likely to misuse cannabis than the White group and to have been compulsorily hospitalized or reportedly involved in violence over an 18 month period. Conclusion: Attention should be paid in the development of dual diagnosis interventions to ethnic variations in patterns of comorbid substance use. Declaration of interest: The study was funded by the Maudsley NHS Trust.