Impulsivity and self-harm behavior in patients with synthetic cannabinoids dependence

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Synthetic cannabinoid (SC) dependence is a growing global concern, particularly among young individuals.
• The detrimental effects of SCs, including impacts on behavior and mental health, are not fully understood.
• This study addresses the need for research into the psychological consequences of SC dependence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comparatively assess impulsivity and non-suicidal self-harm behaviors in patients with SC dependence versus healthy controls.
• To investigate the relationship between SC dependence severity and behavioral outcomes.
• To identify factors influencing impulsivity and self-harm in SC users.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 30 SC-dependent patients and 30 healthy controls.
• Utilized psychometric scales: Addiction Severity Index (ASI), Barratt Impulsivity Scale-11 (BIS-11), and Deliberate Self-harm Inventory-Short Version (DSHI-s).
• Included clinical diagnostic tools (SCID I, SCID II) and drug urine screening.

Main Results:

• SC-dependent patients exhibited significantly higher DSHI-s scores (3.23 ± 4.97) compared to controls (0.0 ± 0.0, p < 0.001).
• Mean BIS scale scores were significantly higher in cases (68.13 ± 9.75) than controls (45.67 ± 5.12, p < 0.001).
• Regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between age, duration of substance use, DSHI-s scores, and BIS scores.

Conclusions:

• Synthetic cannabinoid addiction is associated with heightened impulsivity and self-harm behaviors compared to healthy individuals.
• Addiction severity, as indicated by ASI, correlates with increased adverse effects.
• Age and duration of substance use are potential contributing factors to impulsivity and self-harm in SC dependence.