Life Satisfaction in Opioid Dependence
Author Information
Author(s): Jason Luty, Mary Arokiadass
Primary Institution: South Essex Partnership NHS Trust
Hypothesis
Can illicit drug use be regarded as a valid, although reckless, lifestyle choice?
Conclusion
Opioid dependent individuals in treatment have significantly lower life satisfaction compared to the general population.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients had a mean SWLS score of 7.12 compared to 22.6 in the comparison group.
- 40% of patients were expelled from school and 64% received no formal qualifications.
- 96% of patients reported problems with the police in adolescence.
Takeaway
People who are dependent on opioids and are getting treatment are not very happy with their lives compared to others.
Methodology
The Satisfaction With Life Scale was administered to opioid-dependent individuals receiving substitute medication and a matched comparison group.
Potential Biases
Participants may have been motivated to seek treatment due to dissatisfaction with life.
Limitations
The study only included treatment-seeking individuals and may not represent all opioid users.
Participant Demographics
105 opioid-dependent patients, mean age 33.3 years, 80% male, 96% white British.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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