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PTSD substance abuse comorbidity and treatment utilization
P J Brown1, P R Recupero, R Stout
1Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
Addictive Behaviors
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Approximately 25% of substance abusers seeking treatment have posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD comorbidity is linked to higher rates of inpatient substance abuse treatment, especially in women.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Addiction Medicine
Background:
- Substance abuse and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occur.
- Understanding this comorbidity is crucial for effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of PTSD in individuals seeking substance abuse treatment.
- To examine the association between PTSD and inpatient substance abuse treatment utilization.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-four patients admitted for detoxification completed self-report measures.
- Assessed lifetime trauma, PTSD symptoms, and treatment history.
Main Results:
- Nearly 25% of the sample exhibited significant PTSD symptoms.
- Women reported higher rates of abuse and trauma, leading to more possible PTSD diagnoses.
- Patients with PTSD had higher rates of prior hospitalizations for substance abuse.
Conclusions:
- Routine trauma screening is recommended for substance abuse patients.
- Integrated treatment approaches are needed for individuals with co-occurring PTSD and substance use disorders.