Which assessment tool is recognized for screening co-occurring disorders?

The CAGE Questionnaire is recognized for screening co-occurring disorders due to its specific focus on identifying potential issues related to alcohol use and its implications for mental health. This tool consists of four simple questions that effectively help practitioners assess whether an individual may have an alcohol problem. Co-occurring disorders often involve the interaction between substance use disorders and mental health conditions, making the ability to screen for alcohol use particularly relevant.

Unlike other options, such as the Beck Depression Inventory, which is primarily designed to assess depressive symptoms, or the Mini-Mental State Examination, which is used to evaluate cognitive impairment, the CAGE Questionnaire is specifically crafted to bring attention to alcohol consumption patterns. Furthermore, while the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is indeed a valid tool for assessing alcohol use, the CAGE Questionnaire is more straightforward and can be quickly administered, which makes it particularly useful in various settings where co-occurring disorders may be present.