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Co-morbid post-traumatic stress disorder in a substance misusing clinical population
Martina Reynolds1, Gillian Mezey, Murray Chapman
1School of Social Sciences and Law, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, UK. martina.reynolds@brunel.ac.uk
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|March 1, 2005
Summary
High rates of co-occurring post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUD) were found in UK inpatients. Trauma assessment is crucial for both PTSD and SUD patients, as psychopathology often intertwines.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Co-occurring post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUD) are prevalent in US studies.
- Substance use may be a coping mechanism for PTSD distress or a risk factor for trauma.
- Limited research exists on the prevalence of trauma and PTSD among UK substance misusers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of co-morbid PTSD in UK SUD inpatients.
- To characterize trauma experiences and their severity in this population.
- To compare SUD patients with and without PTSD across various clinical and social variables.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Data collection involved patient interviews and case note reviews.
- Participants were SUD inpatients assessed for traumatic experiences, PTSD, and addiction.
Main Results:
- 94% of participants reported at least one Criterion A traumatic experience.
- Current PTSD prevalence was 38.5%, and lifetime PTSD prevalence was 51.9%.
- Significant differences between PTSD and non-PTSD groups were observed in trauma-related variables and social factors, but not in addiction severity or psychiatric symptomatology.
Conclusions:
- Routine assessment for trauma and PTSD is essential in substance misuse treatment.
- Conversely, substance abuse screening is vital for individuals with PTSD.
- Co-occurring psychopathology is common, necessitating integrated treatment approaches.