“Comorbidity refers to the occurrence of more than one disorder at the same time. It may refer to co-occurring mental disorders or co-occurring mental disorders and physical conditions.” (Australian Department of Health.)
This simply means that someone has more than one condition or illness at the same time. Other terms used, but meaning the same thing, include dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders.
“Coexisting” is the preferred term in a recovery approach. “Comorbid” or “comorbidity” is more likely to be used as a medical or clinical term. How can coexisting conditions complicate a person’s wellbeing?
What are some examples of coexisting conditions for people with mental health conditions?
Mental health conditions affect everyone differently. This also applies to people with coexisting conditions.
People with mental health conditions and other disabilitiesThis links to a section of the Mental Health Coordinating Council (MHCC) Mental Health Rights Manual for people with mental health conditions and other disabilities.Type: Manual (publication with additional links)Estimated reading time: 15 minutesProduced by: Mental Health Coordinating Council
Mental health and coexisting conditions