Abstract
This chapter is a brief introductory perspective on epidemiology—in particular psychiatric epidemiology—a field which encompasses the study of both addiction and mental illness. This perspective is in contrast to the typical clinical perspectives held by many social workers whose primary interest is in directly treating or addressing problems at the individual or family level. Epidemiology is about the distribution of disease or disorder and the patterns associated with risk. This chapter presents some recent data on trends in rates of disorder and unmet treatment need. It concludes by highlighting the critical importance of epidemiology as a perspective focused not just on describing rates but on searching for causes. In particular, epidemiology’s role in articulating the importance of “place” and how multilevel research models—models accounting for both individual and community level risk factors—can facilitate more effective prevention strategies.
An earlier version of this chapter was presented as part of the Helen Carey Memorial lecture in September, 2009 at the Milwaukee County Division of Behavioral Health.
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Fendrich, M. (2012). Epidemiology. In: Vaughn, M., Perron, B. (eds) Social Work Practice in the Addictions. Contemporary Social Work Practice. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-5357-4_2
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