Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis or comorbid disorders, refer to the presence of both a mental health disorder and a substance abuse disorder in an individual. This research area focuses on understanding the complex interactions between mental health and substance abuse issues, as well as developing effective treatment strategies for individuals with co-occurring disorders. The goal of this research is to help improve outcomes and quality of life for individuals struggling with both mental health and substance abuse issues. Studies in this field often examine the prevalence of co-occurring disorders, risk factors, treatment outcomes, and the development of integrated treatment approaches that address both the mental health and substance abuse components simultaneously.