A clinical profile of women with posttraumatic stress disorder and substance dependence

Author(s): Weiss, R. D., Shaw, S. R.

Journal/Book: Psychol Addict Behav. 1999; 13: 750 First St, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242, USA. Educational Publishing Foundation. 98-104.

Abstract: To assess the clinical characteristics of women with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance dependence, 28 women with both disorders were compared with 29 women with PTSD alone on a wide battery of lifetime and current clinical measures. The dual-diagnosis women consistently had a more severe clinical profile, including worse life conditions (e.g., physical appearance, opportunities in life), both as children and as adults; greater criminal behavior; a higher number of lifetime suicide attempts; a greater number having a sibling with a drug problem; and fewer outpatient psychiatric treatments. One discrepant finding, however, was their lower rate of major depression. Interestingly, the 2 groups did not differ in number or type of lifetime traumas, PTSD onset or severity, family history of substance use; coping style, functioning level, psychiatric symptoms, or sociodemographic characteristics. Treatment implications and methodological limitations are discussed.

Note: Article Najavits LM, McLean Hosp, Alcohol & Drug Abuse Treatment Ctr, 115 Mill St, Belmont,MA 02478 USA

Keyword(s): ADDICTION SEVERITY INDEX; COCAINE DEPENDENCE; PHYSICAL ABUSE; CHILDHOOD; RESILIENCE; RELIABILITY; VALIDITY

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