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Posttraumatic stress disorder among substance users from the general population
L B Cottler1, W M Compton, D Mager
1Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is more common in substance users than previously thought. Cocaine and opiate users have higher rates of PTSD, with substance use often preceding trauma exposure.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health condition.
- Substance use disorders are prevalent in the general population.
- The co-occurrence of PTSD and substance use requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of PTSD among individuals with substance use disorders.
- To explore the relationship between different types of substance use and PTSD.
- To identify risk factors for PTSD in the context of substance abuse.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the St. Louis Epidemiologic Catchment Area study.
- Employed the Diagnostic Interview Schedule to assess PTSD and substance use.
- Classified 2,663 respondents into substance use categories for comparative analysis.
Main Results:
- PTSD prevalence was 1.35% overall, but higher in specific substance-using groups.
- Cocaine/opiate users were over three times more likely to meet PTSD criteria.
- Substance use onset often preceded PTSD symptom onset, suggesting a predisposing role.
Conclusions:
- PTSD is significantly more prevalent among substance abusers than previously recognized.
- Findings highlight the critical need for integrated treatment approaches for co-occurring PTSD and substance use disorders.
- Further research is warranted to understand the complex interplay between trauma, substance use, and PTSD.