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Association between posttraumatic stress disorder and nonfatal drug overdose
William K Lee1, Kanna Hayashi1, Kora DeBeck1
1British Columbia Centre on Substance Use.
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) nearly doubles the risk of nonfatal overdose in people who use drugs. Integrating trauma-informed care is crucial for overdose prevention and supporting this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychiatry
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- North America faces a severe drug overdose crisis, with a significant focus on opioids.
- The role of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the overdose crisis among people who use drugs (PWUD) is under-examined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between PTSD and the risk of nonfatal overdose.
- To examine this relationship among a cohort of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada.
Main Methods:
- Prospective data from three cohorts of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada (2016-2018).
- PTSD assessed using the PTSD Checklist for the DSM-5.
- Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounders.
Main Results:
- 1,059 PWUD participated; 16% experienced a nonfatal overdose, and 39% had a provisional PTSD diagnosis.
- PTSD was independently associated with a nearly twofold increased risk of nonfatal overdose (aOR = 1.98, 95% CI [1.4, 2.79]).
Conclusions:
- A provisional PTSD diagnosis significantly elevates the risk of nonfatal overdose in PWUD.
- Emphasizes the need for trauma-informed approaches in overdose prevention strategies.
- Recommends prioritizing education on trauma and PTSD for healthcare professionals working with PWUD.
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