Which of the following symptoms is most commonly observed among alcohol and other drug abusers?

Depressive symptoms are indeed one of the most frequently observed issues among individuals who abuse alcohol and other drugs. This connection can be attributed to several factors, including the neurochemical changes caused by substance use, which may lead to mood disturbances.

Additionally, many individuals who engage in substance abuse initially do so to self-medicate feelings of depression or other psychological distress. This creates a cycle where substance use exacerbates depressive symptoms, leading to a worsening mental health status. Statistics indicate that co-occurring disorders, where both substance use and depressive disorders are present, are common, making it critical for counselors to assess and treat depression in clients with substance use disorders.

While anxiety disorders, psychotic symptoms, and hyperactive symptoms can also occur among individuals with substance abuse issues, they do not have the same prevalence or established correlation with alcohol and drug abuse as depressive symptoms do. Thus, this understanding helps to highlight the importance of addressing mood-related issues in treatment plans for those struggling with substance use.