Differences in Treatment for Depressed Teens with Alcohol Misuse
Author Information
Author(s): Tiia Pirkola, Mirjami Pelkonen, Linnea Karlsson, Olli Kiviruusu, Thea Strandholm, Virpi Tuisku, Titta Ruuttu, Mauri Marttunen
Primary Institution: National Institute for Health and Welfare
Hypothesis
This study aims to examine the differences between depressed psychiatric adolescent outpatients with and without co-occurring alcohol misuse in psychosocial background, clinical characteristics, and treatment received during one-year follow-up.
Conclusion
Alcohol misuse in depressed adolescents is linked to family issues and negatively impacts treatment attendance.
Supporting Evidence
- Adolescents with alcohol misuse reported lower family support.
- Those with alcohol misuse had more severe depressive symptoms.
- Alcohol misuse was linked to poorer treatment attendance.
Takeaway
Teens who are depressed and also misuse alcohol often have more family problems and miss more treatment appointments.
Methodology
The study involved structured interviews with 156 adolescent psychiatric outpatients diagnosed with unipolar depression, assessing their psychosocial background and treatment received over one year.
Potential Biases
There may be underreporting of substance use due to stigma or lack of recognition by clinicians.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable to other cultures due to differences in healthcare systems.
Participant Demographics
Participants were adolescents aged 13-19, with a mix of genders and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.96, 0.97
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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