Future research should also investigate the temporal sequencing of comorbid disorders. Alternatively, to examine the prospective associations between mental disorders and SUD one may examine several different transition points, e.g., from use to abuse, and from abuse to dependence. This approach would further refine our understanding of the associations between primary psychiatric disorders and the subsequent onset of substance use, abuse and dependence (Swendsen, et al., 2010; Behrendt S., et al., 2010; Kalaydjian A., et al., 2009).
