Substance abuse disorders are among the most prevalent psychiatric disorders and are frequently comorbid with other psychiatric and health conditions and accompanied by social problems; however, they remain under-recognized and under-treated. Many physicians and mental health practitioners receive little-to-no training in the identification and treatment of these disorders. Approaches to their prevention include some of the major success stories in modern public health as well as some of the deepest controversies in public life. This new title in the WPA series "Evidence and Experience in Psychiatry" informs psychiatrists and a wide range of professional groups from health and social services about these disorders and their treatment and control.

'Highly Commended' in the Psychiatry section of the 2012 BMA Book Awards