Screening for Mental Health Issues in Women with Substance Abuse Problems
Author Information
Author(s): Alisa K Lincoln, Jane M Liebschutz, Miriam Chernoff, Dana Nguyen, Hortensia Amaro
Primary Institution: Boston University School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Can a brief screening tool effectively identify co-occurring mental health disorders in women entering substance abuse treatment?
Conclusion
Substance abuse treatment programs should include questions about violence exposure to improve mental health assessments.
Supporting Evidence
- 89% of women reported a history of interpersonal violence.
- 70% reported a history of sexual assault.
- 88% reported mental health symptoms in the last 30 days.
Takeaway
This study created a quick questionnaire to help doctors find out if women in treatment for drug problems also have mental health issues, especially related to violence.
Methodology
The study developed and validated a 14-question screening tool for mental health and trauma among women in substance abuse treatment.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from using a single mental health professional for diagnostic assessments.
Limitations
The validation relied on a semi-structured interview by a single clinician, which may introduce bias.
Participant Demographics
Participants included Black, Hispanic, and White women, with a mean age of 36 years.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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