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Back SE, Jarnecke AM, Norman SB, Zaur AJ, Hien DA. State of the Science: Treatment of comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. J Trauma Stress 2024. [PMID: 38857125 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) co-occur at high rates, with research showing that up to nearly 60% of individuals with PTSD also suffer from an alcohol and/or drug use disorder. PTSD/SUD is complex; associated with adverse health, social, and economic outcomes; and can be challenging to treat. Over the past decade, the landscape of treatment research addressing PTSD/SUD has significantly expanded. Ongoing efforts aimed at developing and evaluating novel treatments for PTSD/SUD, encompassing both psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy approaches, are steadily advancing. As such, this State of the Science paper reviews the literature on the latest scientific advances in treating PTSD/SUD. Clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of PTSD/SUD are discussed, along with evidence-based psychotherapies and emerging interventions. Rigorously conducted clinical trials demonstrate that individual, manualized, trauma-focused treatments are the most efficacious psychotherapies to use among individuals with PTSD/SUD. Moreover, patients do not need to be abstinent to initiate or benefit from evidence-based PTSD treatment. To date, no medications have been established for this comorbidity. We highlight ongoing research on novel treatments for PTSD/SUD, such as new forms of integrated trauma-focused psychotherapies, pharmacological augmentation strategies, and technology-based enhancements. Finally, promising future directions for the field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudie E Back
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Healthcare System, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Amber M Jarnecke
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Angela J Zaur
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Denise A Hien
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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Saraiya TC, Helpinstill S, Gray D, Hien DA, Brady KT, Hood CO, Back SE. The lived experiences and treatment needs of women with opioid use disorder and posttraumatic stress symptoms: A mixed methods study. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 161:209344. [PMID: 38492805 PMCID: PMC11146521 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women show a gender-specific risk for co-occurring opioid use disorder (OUD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Expert groups have called for the development of integrated treatments for women with OUD/PTSD, but there remains limited information on such interventions. METHODS This mixed-methods study interviewed and surveyed 10 women with current or past OUD and co-occurring posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and 16 providers who work with these women. Interviews and surveys queried patient participants' and providers' experiences of OUD/PTSS and how to best design an integrated, trauma-focused treatment for OUD/PTSD. RESULTS Patient participants (90 % white, 90 % mothers, Mage = 45.70) met criteria for severe, lifetime OUD and 40 % met a provisional diagnosis for PTSD. Four themes emerged for participants' experiences of OUD/PTSS: 1) numerous stressors; 2) shame; 3) multiple motivations to use opioids; and 4) a cycle of trauma and opioid use. Four themes emerged regarding patient participants' perceptions on the development of an OUD/PTSD treatment: 1) mixed attitudes towards medications for OUD; 2) barriers to treatment (e.g., insufficient treatments and contextual factors); 3) treatment facilitators (e.g., social support); and 4) preferences in treatment (e.g., trauma-focused, gender-focused, family content, ambivalence around group therapy). Providers (Mage = 38.94) were primarily white women (76.5 %). Two themes emerged from their experiences working with women with OUD/PTSS: 1) perceiving women to use opioids to regulate emotions and 2) gender differences in trauma types. Three themes emerged for providers' perceptions on the development of an OUD/PTSD treatment: 1) barriers to treatment (e.g., chaotic lives, contextual factors, family); 2) treatment facilitators (e.g., trust and external motivations); and 3) desired treatment modifications (e.g., stabilization, early skills in therapy, flexibility in therapy, social supports, safety guidelines, and assistance in identifying an index trauma). Most participants (90.0 %) and providers (93.5 %) preferred working on OUD/PTSD symptoms simultaneously rather than separately. CONCLUSIONS Findings demonstrate the need to modify integrated treatments to meet the preferences of providers and women with OUD/PTSS and OUD/PTSD. Treatments should consider therapeutic content, structure, contextual factors, social support, and PTSD severity to enhance uptake and reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya C Saraiya
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America.
| | - Sarah Helpinstill
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America; George Washington University, Washington D.C
| | - Daphne Gray
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America; California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, California
| | - Denise A Hien
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Kathleen T Brady
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America; Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America
| | - Caitlyn O Hood
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Sudie E Back
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America; Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America
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Possemato K, Mastroleo NR, Balderrama-Durbin C, King P, Davis A, Borsari B, Rauch SAM. A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial of Primary Care Treatment Integrating Motivation and Exposure Treatment (PC-TIME) in Veterans With PTSD and Harmful Alcohol Use. Behav Ther 2024; 55:570-584. [PMID: 38670669 PMCID: PMC11056732 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often engage in harmful alcohol use. These co-occurring conditions are associated with negative health consequences and disability. PTSD and harmful drinking are typically experienced as closely related-thus treatments that target both simultaneously are preferred by patients. Many individuals with PTSD and harmful alcohol use receive primary care services but encounter treatment barriers in engaging in specialty mental health and substance use services. A pilot randomized controlled trial of a brief integrated treatment for PTSD and harmful drinking versus primary care treatment as usual (PC-TAU) took place in three U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) primary care clinics. The intervention (primary care treatment integrating motivation and exposure [PC-TIME]) combines motivational interviewing to reduce alcohol use and brief prolonged exposure for PTSD delivered over five brief sessions. Participants (N = 63) were veterans with PTSD and harmful drinking. Multilevel growth curve modeling examined changes in drinking (average number of drinks per drinking day and percentage of heavy drinking days) and self-reported PTSD severity at baseline, 8, 14, and 20 weeks. Participants reported high satisfaction with PC-TIME and 70% (n = 23) completed treatment. As hypothesized, a significantly steeper decrease in self-reported PTSD severity and heavy drinking was evident for participants randomized to PC-TIME compared with PC-TAU. Contrary to expectations, no significant posttreatment differences in PTSD diagnoses were observed. PC-TIME participants were less likely to exceed National Institute for Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (NIAAA) guidelines for harmful alcohol use posttreatment compared with PC-TAU participants. PC-TIME is a promising brief, primary care-based treatment for individuals with co-occurring PTSD and harmful alcohol use. A full-scale randomized clinical trial is needed to fully test its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Possemato
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Syracuse and Buffalo.
| | | | | | - Paul King
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Syracuse and Buffalo; and University at Buffalo
| | - Ariella Davis
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Syracuse and Buffalo
| | - Brian Borsari
- San Francisco VA Health Care System and University of California, San Francisco
| | - Sheila A M Rauch
- |Atlanta VA Healthcare System and Emory University School of Medicine
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Blais RK, Tannahill HS, Cue Davis K. Sexual Risk Taking among Survivors of U.S. Military Sexual Assault: Associations with PTSD Symptom Severity and Alcohol Use. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:683-690. [PMID: 37579247 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2232803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Sexual risk taking may be heightened among U.S. service members and veterans reporting military sexual assault (MSA) exposure. MSA increases the risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a common correlate of sexual risk taking among civilians. PTSD may relate to sexual risk taking through its association with alcohol use, which increases impulsivity and risky behavioral engagement. Male survivors may be at notably higher risk given greater overall alcohol use and engagement in sexual risk taking relative to female survivors. This study assessed whether higher alcohol use mediated the association between PTSD and sexual risk taking among MSA survivors, and whether this effect differed by sex. Participants included 200 male and 200 female service members and veterans (age: M = 35.89, SD = 5.56) who completed measures of PTSD symptoms, alcohol use, sexual risk taking, and a demographic inventory. In a moderated mediation analysis using linear regression, higher PTSD severity was associated with higher alcohol use, and higher alcohol use was associated with higher sexual risk taking. A significant indirect effect of alcohol use was observed, which was stronger among men. To reduce sexual risk taking among MSA survivors, it may be beneficial to target PTSD symptoms and alcohol use with sex-specific interventions. This line of inquiry would be strengthened by longitudinal studies that explore the fluidity of these experiences to identify periods of elevated risk. Studies that examine alcohol use expectancies and sexual delay discounting could expand our understanding of these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Blais
- Psychology Department, Arizona State University
| | | | - K Cue Davis
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University
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McHugh RK, Fitzmaurice GM, Votaw VR, Geyer RB, Ragnini K, Greenfield SF, Weiss RD. Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and opioid use disorder: Development and pilot testing. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 160:209296. [PMID: 38272120 PMCID: PMC11060910 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent among people with opioid use disorder (OUD), and they have a negative impact on disorder course and treatment outcomes. The objective of this Stage 1 A/1B behavioral treatment development trial was to develop a novel cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) protocol for co-occurring anxiety disorders and OUD. METHODS Following a period of iterative manual development involving patient interviews and feedback from content experts, we tested a 12-session individual CBT protocol in a small, open pilot trial (N = 5). This was followed by a small, randomized controlled trial (N = 32), comparing the new protocol to 12 sessions of manualized Individual Drug Counseling. All participants also received medication for OUD. RESULTS Overall, support for feasibility and acceptability was strong, based on recruitment and retention rates and patient satisfaction ratings. Within-subjects results identified 11-point reductions in anxiety symptom severity (on a 0-56 point scale); these gains were sustained through 3 months of follow-up. However, these changes did not differ between randomized conditions. With respect to opioid outcomes, 85 % of participants were abstinent in the prior month at the end of treatment. Opioid use outcomes also did not differ by treatment condition. CONCLUSIONS These results support the feasibility and acceptability of a CBT protocol for co-occurring anxiety and OUD. However, in this small pilot trial results do not show an initial benefit over an evidence-based psychosocial treatment targeted to OUD alone, in combination with medication for OUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Kathryn McHugh
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs and Addiction, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shuttuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Garrett M Fitzmaurice
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs and Addiction, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shuttuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Victoria R Votaw
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs and Addiction, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shuttuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rachel B Geyer
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs and Addiction, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shuttuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Kael Ragnini
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs and Addiction, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shuttuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shelly F Greenfield
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs and Addiction, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shuttuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Roger D Weiss
- Division of Alcohol, Drugs and Addiction, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shuttuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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McLean CP, Foa EB. State of the Science: Prolonged exposure therapy for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. J Trauma Stress 2024. [PMID: 38652057 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Prolonged exposure therapy (PE) is a well-established first-line treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that is based on emotional processing theory. PE has been rigorously evaluated and tested in a large number of clinical trials in many countries covering a wide range of trauma populations. In this review, we summarize the evidence base supporting the efficacy of PE across populations, including adults with sexual assault-related PTSD and mixed trauma-related PTSD, military populations, and adolescents. We highlight important strengths and gaps in the research on PE with individuals from marginalized communities. We discuss the efficacy of PE on associated psychopathology and in the presence of the most commonly comorbid conditions, either alone or integrated with other treatments. In addition, we provide an overview of research examining strategies to augment PE. Much of this work remains preliminary, but numerous trials have tested PE in combination with other psychological or pharmacological approaches, interventions to facilitate extinction learning, and behavioral approaches, in the hopes of further increasing the efficiency and efficacy of PE. There are now several trials testing PE in novel formats that may have advantages over standard in-person PE, such as lower dropout and increased scalability. We examine this recent work on new models of delivering PE, including massed treatment, telehealth, and brief adaptations for primary care, all of which have the potential to increase access to PE. Finally, we highlight several promising areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen P McLean
- Dissemination and Training Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Edna B Foa
- Department of Psychiatry, Perlman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Fearon D, Perlman CM, Leatherdale S, Hirdes JP, Dubin J. Classification of traumatic life events and substance use among persons admitted to inpatient psychiatry in Ontario, Canada. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 172:236-243. [PMID: 38412786 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trauma is commonly overlooked or undiagnosed in clinical care settings. Undetected trauma has been associated with elevated substance use highlighting the need to prioritize identifying individuals with undetected trauma through common characteristics. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to identify classifications of traumatic life experiences and substance use among persons admitted to inpatient psychiatry in Ontario and to identify covariates associated with classification membership. STUDY DESIGN A population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted using interRAI Mental Health (MH) assessment data. Individuals were included who experienced traumatic life events (N = 10,125), in Ontario, Canada between January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2019. RESULTS Eight latent classes were identified that ranged from low (i.e., Class 1: Interpersonal Issues, Without Substance use) to high (i.e., Class 8: Widespread Trauma, Alcohol & Cannabis Addiction) complexity patterns of traumatic life events and substance use indicators. Classifications with similar trauma profiles were differentiated by patterns of substance use. For example, individuals in Class 2: Safety & Relationship Issues, Without Substance use and Class 3: Safety & Relationship Issues, Alcohol & Cannabis both had many estimates centered around the experience of victimization (e.g., victim of sexual assault, victim of physical assault, victim of emotional abuse). Multinomial logistic regression models highlighted additional factors associated with classifications such as homelessness, where those who were homeless were 2.09-4.02 times more likely to be in Class 6: Widespread Trauma & Substance Addiction. INTERPRETATION Trauma exposures are complex and varied among persons in inpatient psychiatry and can be further differentiated by substance use patterns. These findings provide a population-based estimate of the trauma experiences of persons in inpatient settings in Ontario, Canada. Findings demonstrate the importance of using comprehensive assessment to support clinical decision making in relation to trauma and substance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Fearon
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Scott Leatherdale
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - John P Hirdes
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joel Dubin
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Meshberg-Cohen S, Cook JM, Bin-Mahfouz A, Petrakis IL. Written exposure therapy for veterans with co-occurring substance use disorders and PTSD: Study design of a randomized clinical trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2024; 139:107475. [PMID: 38365173 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2024.107475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
There are high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among treatment-seeking veterans with substance use disorders (SUD). While addiction programs traditionally do not address PTSD, there is evidence that trauma treatments for individuals with this comorbidity have improved PTSD and SUD outcomes. Written exposure therapy (WET), a five-session evidence-based psychotherapy (EBP) for PTSD, has high patient satisfaction, and lower dropout compared to other EBPs for PTSD. WET may be ideally suited for clinical settings that may not have the trauma expertise found in PTSD specialty clinics, given it requires less training time, treatment sessions, preparation time, and therapist involvement than existing EBPs, and no homework assignments. This paper describes the design, methodology, and protocol of a randomized clinical trial to evaluate whether treatment as usual (TAU) plus WET (n = 51) is superior to TAU plus a neutral topic writing condition (n = 51) on both PTSD and addiction outcomes for veterans in SUD treatment. The primary hypothesis is that participants assigned to TAU+WET, compared to those in TAU+ neutral topic writing, will report reduced symptoms of PTSD. The secondary hypothesis is that veterans receiving WET will have greater decreases in number of days of substance use compared to TAU+ neutral topic controls at follow-up. Assessments will take place at baseline, post-treatment, 8-week, and 12-week follow-up. Exploratory aims will examine the association between heart rate variability and treatment outcomes. If results prove promising, they will support WET as an effective brief, easy to disseminate, adjunct to current SUD treatment for veterans with comorbid PTSD. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT05327504.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Meshberg-Cohen
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, United States of America; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, United States of America.
| | - Joan M Cook
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, United States of America
| | - Amirah Bin-Mahfouz
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, United States of America; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, United States of America
| | - Ismene L Petrakis
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, United States of America; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, United States of America
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Hill ML, Kline AC, Saraiya TC, Gette J, Ruglass LM, Norman SB, Back SE, Saavedra LM, Hien DA, Morgan-López AA. Cannabis use and trauma-focused treatment for co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders: A meta-analysis of individual patient data. J Anxiety Disord 2024; 102:102827. [PMID: 38266511 PMCID: PMC11138203 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2024.102827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
High rates of cannabis use among people with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have raised questions about the efficacy of evidence-based PTSD treatments for individuals reporting cannabis use, particularly those with co-occurring alcohol or other substance use disorders (SUDs). Using a subset of four randomized clinical trials (RCTs) included in Project Harmony, an individual patient meta-analysis of 36 RCTs (total N = 4046) of treatments for co-occurring PTSD+SUD, we examined differences in trauma-focused (TF) and non-trauma-focused (non-TF) treatment outcomes for individuals who did and did not endorse baseline cannabis use (N = 410; 70% male; 33.2% endorsed cannabis use). Propensity score-weighted mixed effects modeling evaluated main and interactive effects of treatment assignment (TF versus non-TF) and baseline cannabis use (yes/no) on attendance rates and within-treatment changes in PTSD, alcohol, and non-cannabis drug use severity. Results revealed significant improvements across outcomes among participants in all conditions, with larger PTSD symptom reductions but lower attendance among individuals receiving TF versus non-TF treatment in both cannabis groups. Participants achieved similar reductions in alcohol and drug use across all conditions. TF outperformed non-TF treatments regardless of recent cannabis use, underscoring the importance of reducing barriers to accessing TF treatments for individuals reporting cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie L Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | | | - Tanya C Saraiya
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jordan Gette
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Lesia M Ruglass
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Department of Psychology, The City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA; Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; National Center for PTSD, Executive Division, White River Junction, VT, USA
| | - Sudie E Back
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Denise A Hien
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Schnurr PP, Hamblen JL, Wolf J, Coller R, Collie C, Fuller MA, Holtzheimer PE, Kelly U, Lang AJ, McGraw K, Morganstein JC, Norman SB, Papke K, Petrakis I, Riggs D, Sall JA, Shiner B, Wiechers I, Kelber MS. The Management of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Acute Stress Disorder: Synopsis of the 2023 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Defense Clinical Practice Guideline. Ann Intern Med 2024; 177:363-374. [PMID: 38408360 DOI: 10.7326/m23-2757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
DESCRIPTION The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) worked together to revise the 2017 VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Acute Stress Disorder. This article summarizes the 2023 clinical practice guideline (CPG) and its development process, focusing on assessments and treatments for which evidence was sufficient to support a recommendation for or against. METHODS Subject experts from both departments developed 12 key questions and reviewed the published literature after a systematic search using the PICOTS (population, intervention, comparator, outcomes, timing of outcomes measurement, and setting) method. The evidence was then evaluated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) method. Recommendations were made after consensus was reached; they were based on quality and strength of evidence and informed by other factors, including feasibility and patient perspectives. Once the draft was peer reviewed by an external group of experts and their inputs were incorporated, the final document was completed. RECOMMENDATIONS The revised CPG includes 34 recommendations in the following 5 topic areas: assessment and diagnosis, prevention, treatment, treatment of nightmares, and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with co-occurring conditions. Six recommendations on PTSD treatment were rated as strong. The CPG recommends use of specific manualized psychotherapies over pharmacotherapy; prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing psychotherapy; paroxetine, sertraline, or venlafaxine; and secure video teleconferencing to deliver recommended psychotherapy when that therapy has been validated for use with video teleconferencing or when other options are unavailable. The CPG also recommends against use of benzodiazepines, cannabis, or cannabis-derived products. Providers are encouraged to use this guideline to support evidence-based, patient-centered care and shared decision making to optimize individuals' health outcomes and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula P Schnurr
- National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, and Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire (P.P.S., J.L.H., P.E.H.)
| | - Jessica L Hamblen
- National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, and Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire (P.P.S., J.L.H., P.E.H.)
| | - Jonathan Wolf
- Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, Virginia (J.W.)
| | - Rachael Coller
- Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, California (R.C.)
| | - Claire Collie
- Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC (C.C.)
| | - Matthew A Fuller
- Veterans Health Administration Pharmacy Benefits Management Service and Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio (M.A.F.)
| | - Paul E Holtzheimer
- National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, and Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire (P.P.S., J.L.H., P.E.H.)
| | - Ursula Kelly
- Joseph Maxwell Cleland Atlanta VA Medical Center and Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Atlanta, Georgia (U.K.)
| | - Ariel J Lang
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health at VA San Diego Healthcare System and University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California (A.J.L.)
| | - Kate McGraw
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, Virginia (K.M., M.S.K.)
| | - Joshua C Morganstein
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, Bethesda, Maryland (J.C.M.)
| | - Sonya B Norman
- National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, Vermont, and University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California (S.B.N.)
| | - Katie Papke
- National Social Work Program Office, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC (K.P.)
| | - Ismene Petrakis
- National Center for PTSD, West Haven, and Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut (I.P.)
| | - David Riggs
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Center for Deployment Psychology, Bethesda, Maryland (D.R.)
| | - James A Sall
- Evidence Based Practice, Quality and Patient Safety, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC (J.A.S.)
| | - Brian Shiner
- White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont, and Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire (B.S.)
| | - Ilse Wiechers
- Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; and University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, California (I.W.)
| | - Marija S Kelber
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, Virginia (K.M., M.S.K.)
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11
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Hien DA, Papini S, Saavedra LM, Bauer AG, Ruglass LM, Ebrahimi CT, Fitzpatrick S, López-Castro T, Norman SB, Killeen TK, Back SE, Morgan-López AA. Project harmony: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of psychotherapy and pharmacologic trials for comorbid posttraumatic stress, alcohol, and other drug use disorders. Psychol Bull 2024; 150:319-353. [PMID: 37971855 PMCID: PMC10939977 DOI: 10.1037/bul0000409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analyses (NMA) of psychotherapy and pharmacologic treatments for individuals with co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol or other drug use disorder (AOD). A comprehensive search spanning 1995-2019 yielded a pool of 39 studies for systematic review, including 24 randomized controlled trials for the NMA. Study interventions were grouped by target of treatment (PTSD + AOD, PTSD-only, and AOD-only) and approach (psychotherapy or medication). Standardized mean differences (SMD) from the NMA yielded evidence that at the end of treatment, integrated, trauma-focused therapy for PTSD + AOD was more effective at reducing PTSD symptoms than integrated, non-trauma-focused therapy (SMD = -0.30), AOD-focused psychotherapy (SMD = -0.29), and other control psychotherapies (SMD = -0.43). End-of-treatment alcohol use severity was less for AOD medication compared to placebo medication (SMD = -0.36) and trauma-focused therapy for PTSD + placebo medication (SMD = -0.67), and less for trauma-focused psychotherapy + AOD medication compared to PTSD medication (SMD = -0.53), placebo medication (SMD = -0.50), and trauma-focused psychotherapy + placebo medication (SMD = -0.81). Key limitations include the small number of studies in the NMA for pharmacologic treatments and the lack of demographic diversity apparent in the existing literature. Findings suggest room for new studies that can address limitations in study sample composition, sample sizes, retention, and apply new techniques for conducting comparative effectiveness in PTSD + AOD treatment. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise A Hien
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University-New Brunswick
| | | | | | - Alexandria G Bauer
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University-New Brunswick
| | | | - Chantel T Ebrahimi
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University-New Brunswick
| | | | | | - Sonya B Norman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
| | - Therese K Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Sudie E Back
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
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12
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Hulot J, Roseau JB, Gomez-Merino D, Chennaoui M, Saguin E. Clinical description of sleep and trauma-related nightmares in a population of French active-duty members and veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. L'ENCEPHALE 2024; 50:11-19. [PMID: 36424208 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a major public health problem. The most frequent complaints in this pathology are sleep disorders and trauma-related nightmares in particular. Trauma-related nightmares are characteristic of PTSD and impact its severity insofar as they are associated with more severe, longer-lasting symptoms and resistance to first-line treatments. There are specific characteristics associated with military personnel, including overrepresentation of replicative trauma-related nightmares. The aim of this study was to provide an accurate description of sleep patterns and the characteristics of trauma-related nightmares in a population of active-duty members or veterans diagnosed with PTSD. METHODS We recruited active-duty service members and veterans receiving treatment for PTSD in the psychiatric departments of five Military Teaching Hospitals (Hôpitaux d'Instruction des Armées, HIA) and described their sleep characteristics using a questionnaire, the Trauma-Related Nightmare Survey French version (TRNS-FR). RESULTS Out of 77 patients, 72 (93.5%) who experienced traumatic nightmares were included. This population had very severe clinical manifestations of PTSD, with a mean PCL-S score of 62.6 and an estimated total sleep time of 5.3h (317min). Among these patients, 31% had replicative nightmares and 57.7% had partially replicative nightmares. Nightmares were frequent (4.7 nightmares on average over the previous week), highly realistic, and highly immersive with exacerbated symptoms during the nightmare and also upon awakening. DISCUSSION Sleep quality was seriously altered among active-duty service members and veterans treated in Military Hospitals for PTSD with trauma-related nightmares. Certain criteria were identified to help characterize trauma-related nightmares: their level of replication, recurrence and the impact of these symptoms on patients' lives. CONCLUSION Long-term traumatic nightmares are a prominent feature in the symptomatology of active service members and veterans suffering from PTSD. This symptom is of particular interest as it may be a sign of changes in the patient's condition and a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hulot
- HIA Percy, 92140 Clamart, France.
| | - J-B Roseau
- Service de pneumologie et de médecine du sommeil, HIA Clermont-Tonnerre, 29240 Brest, France
| | - D Gomez-Merino
- VIFASOM (Vigilance Fatigue Sommeil et Santé Publique) EA 7330, Université de Paris, 75005 Paris, France; Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - M Chennaoui
- VIFASOM (Vigilance Fatigue Sommeil et Santé Publique) EA 7330, Université de Paris, 75005 Paris, France; Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, 91220 Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - E Saguin
- VIFASOM (Vigilance Fatigue Sommeil et Santé Publique) EA 7330, Université de Paris, 75005 Paris, France; Service de Psychiatrie, HIA Bégin, 94160 Saint-Mandé, France
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13
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Polizzi CP, Sistad RE, Livingston NA, Brief D, Litwack S, Roy M, Solhan M, Rosenbloom D, Keane TM. Alcohol-Related Problems As Moderators of PTSD Symptom Change During Use of a Web-Based Intervention for Hazardous Drinking and PTSD. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2024; 85:51-61. [PMID: 37796630 PMCID: PMC10846604 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.23-00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol-related problems (e.g., physical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, impulse control, social responsibility) can have an impact on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms during treatment. Evidence-based online self-help tools exist to target alcohol use and related problems and co-occurring PTSD symptoms. It is unknown to what degree individuals with varying alcohol-related problems respond differently to web-based interventions for hazardous alcohol use and PTSD. The current study evaluated specific alcohol-related problems as potential moderators of PTSD symptom changes during the VetChange online intervention while controlling for average daily alcohol use, gender, race, and age. METHOD We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial that included 600 post-9/11 veterans (518 men and 82 women). Mixed-effects regression models of alcohol-related problems on PTSD severity scores over time were performed separately in an initial intervention group (IIG; n = 404) and a delayed intervention group (DIG; n = 196) that was used as a comparison condition. RESULTS Interpersonal problems emerged as a moderator of PTSD symptom changes in IIG such that veterans endorsing greater interpersonal problems demonstrated larger reductions in PTSD symptoms throughout VetChange. There were no significant moderation effects in DIG. Non-White veterans reported significantly higher PTSD symptoms during VetChange. Post hoc analyses indicated that veterans with higher interpersonal problems were more likely to engage in online intervention content focused on identifying high-risk drinking situations and coping with symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Findings imply that veterans reporting alcohol-related interpersonal problems may benefit the most from, and be more motivated to use, online interventions for hazardous alcohol use and PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig P. Polizzi
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rebecca E. Sistad
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Deborah Brief
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Scott Litwack
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Monica Roy
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marika Solhan
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Boston Vet Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David Rosenbloom
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Terence M. Keane
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
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14
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Watkins LE, Patton SC, Wilcox T, Drexler K, Rauch SAM, Rothbaum BO. Substance Use after Completion of an Intensive Treatment Program with Concurrent Treatment for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use among Veterans: Examining the Role of PTSD Symptoms. J Dual Diagn 2024; 20:16-28. [PMID: 38122816 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2023.2290167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Substance use disorders (SUDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are costly and highly co-occurring diagnoses, particularly among veterans, suggesting a need to understand this comorbidity and effectively treat both disorders among this population. METHODS The current study aimed to examine substance use outcomes among post-9/11 veterans and service members (N = 48) who completed a two-week intensive outpatient program with concurrent treatment for and PTSD using Prolonged Exposure and substance use. Substance use was assessed at two weeks and three months posttreatment. RESULTS The intensive program had high completion rates and demonstrated decreases in substance use at two weeks and three months posttreatment. Additionally, lower PTSD symptoms at treatment completion were related to less substance use posttreatment. CONCLUSIONS Concurrent intensive treatment of PTSD and SUDs can lead to symptom improvement in a short period of time. Findings support the self-medication model, such that PTSD symptoms at treatment completion were related to substance use at follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tiffany Wilcox
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Karen Drexler
- Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sheila A M Rauch
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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15
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Toombs E, Lund J, Kushnier L, Stopa A, Wendt DC, Mushquash CJ. Addressing experiences of trauma within Indigenous-focused substance use residential treatment: a systematic review and environmental scan. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023:1-53. [PMID: 38146766 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2293943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Indigenous individuals in Canada disproportionally experience higher rates of substance use concerns. This study examined clinical practices currently implemented with Indigenous-led residential treatment facilities to simultaneously address substance use and post-traumatic stress. A systematic review of relevant literature retrieved published approaches to address these concurrent disorders with Indigenous individuals. This review retrieved 35 sources related to trauma and substance use treatment among Indigenous individuals or communities. Among these sources, all leveraged cultural approaches as a dual treatment for trauma symptoms and substance use. Inconsistent results were reported among those sources (n = 3) who analyzed comparisons with wait-list controls or used randomized-controlled designs. Using culture-as-treatment was elaborated upon in the second goal of this study: an environmental scan of Indigenous-led treatment programs and qualitative interviews with 10 treatment center staff to understand how programs may address both substance use and traumatic symptoms among Indigenous-led substance use treatment centers across Canada. When we searched the websites of these centers, we found that approximately 38% (16 of 43) of treatment centers discussed implementing some form of treatment that addressed trauma symptoms in conjunction with primary substance use. Among the 10 staff participants, all discussed how trauma can impede client success in treatment, and ACE-specific programming is useful within their respective treatment programs. Results showed that when manualized treatments are used, they must be adapted to meet the specific needs of Indigenous communities, and culture-as-treatment is a popular approach among Indigenous-led treatment centers, particularly for addressing trauma symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Toombs
- Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, ON, Canada
- Dilico Anishinabek Family Care, Fort William First Nation, ON, Canada
| | - Jessie Lund
- Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, ON, Canada
| | | | - Ana Stopa
- Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, ON, Canada
| | | | - Christopher J Mushquash
- Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, ON, Canada
- Dilico Anishinabek Family Care, Fort William First Nation, ON, Canada
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, ON, Canada
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, ON, Canada
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16
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Anderson RE, Nickell AE, Piggott DM, Boros AP, Delahanty DL. A comparison of two strategies to assess sexual violence: general vs. specialised trauma screening strategies in two high-risk substance use health disparity samples. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2287331. [PMID: 38095602 PMCID: PMC10732194 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2287331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective: Using two different high-risk samples, the present study compared and contrasted two different strategies/questionnaire types for assessing a history of sexual violence: a general trauma screening vs. specialised behaviourally-specific questionnaires.Methods: Sample 1 included 91 men and women seeking detoxification treatment services in a publicly funded, urban clinic who completed a trauma and substance use questionnaire battery during treatment. Sample 2 included 310 women at a rural college who completed a trauma and religious coping questionnaire battery for course credit. All participants completed both types of questionnaires: One general trauma screening questionnaire (i.e. the Life Events Checklist [LEC]) and two behaviourally-specific specialised questionnaires (i.e. the 2007 Sexual Experiences Survey [SES] and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire [CTQ]).Results: There were large differences in the cases identified by the behaviourally-specific questionnaires (SES and CTQ) compared to the general trauma screening questionnaire (the LEC) in both samples but few differences in the prevalence rates of sexual violence detected by each questionnaire type. In the detoxification sample, the differences were especially notable for men. Follow-up analyses indicated that degree of traumatisation impacted results likely by increasing participant's willingness to endorse face-valid items on the LEC.Conclusions: For men, the behaviourally-specific questionnaires (SES/CTQ) were necessary to identify cases. For those with more severe trauma histories, the LEC was equivalent to the SES/CTQ in identifying a similar number of sexual violence cases. Thus, clinicians and researchers should consider the population when selecting assessments to identify sexual violence history.
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Affiliation(s)
- RaeAnn E. Anderson
- Psychology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA
- Oriana House Inc., Akron, OH, USA
| | - Anne E. Nickell
- Psychology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, USA
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17
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Gully BJ, Eaton E, Capone C, Haass-Koffler CL. Treating posttraumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder comorbidity: Current pharmacological therapies and the future of MDMA-integrated psychotherapy. J Psychopharmacol 2023; 37:1182-1189. [PMID: 38009477 DOI: 10.1177/02698811231200880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) frequently co-occur in patients who have experienced trauma. This comorbidity leads to a vicious cycle where PTSD symptoms beget heavy drinking and vice versa. There are no FDA-approved medications to treat PTSD-AUD; therefore, individuals suffering from this comorbidity are treated with medication approved to treat the disorders separately or with off-label pharmacological interventions. However, these medications are limited in their efficacy for treating PTSD-AUD comorbidity. Emerging research on the nonclassical psychedelic drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) suggests that it may be an effective drug used in conjunction with psychotherapy. The following reviews the current research for clinical pharmacotherapies, as well as MDMA-integrative psychotherapy as they pertain to PTSD and AUD in isolation and co-occurrence. Future directions for the role of psychedelic-integrative therapy for the treatment of this comorbidity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Gully
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Erica Eaton
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Christy Capone
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Carolina L Haass-Koffler
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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18
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Saraiya TC, Badour CL, Jones AC, Jarnecke AM, Brown DG, Flanagan JC, Killeen TK, Back SE. The role of posttraumatic guilt and anger in integrated treatment for PTSD and co-occurring substance use disorders among primarily male veterans. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA : THEORY, RESEARCH, PRACTICE AND POLICY 2023; 15:1293-1298. [PMID: 35025558 PMCID: PMC9276835 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE PTSD and substance use disorders (SUD) frequently co-occur among veterans. Integrated exposure-based treatments, such as Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and SUD Using Prolonged Exposure (COPE), are efficacious in reducing PTSD and SUD symptoms and posttraumatic emotions. This study examines whether guilt and anger (a) decreased in a randomized clinical trial comparing COPE with Relapse Prevention (RP) therapy for SUD and (b) mediated PTSD and SUD symptom reductions or vice versa. METHOD Veterans (90.1% men) diagnosed with PTSD and SUD were randomized to 12 sessions of COPE (n = 54) or RP (n = 27). Guilt and anger were assessed at 10 time points during treatment. Multilevel linear models assessed changes in guilt and anger across treatments and lagged multilevel mediation analyses assessed within-subject change in guilt and anger predicting PTSD and percent days of substance use, and vice versa. RESULTS Guilt (B = -.12, SE = .02, p < .001) and anger (B = -.13, SE = .02, p < .001) improved in both treatments, however guilt was significantly lower in Sessions 7 through 11 among veterans receiving COPE. Improvement in guilt mediated PTSD symptom improvement in both treatment groups (B = -.08, SE = .04, 95% CI [-.16, -.01]), and PTSD symptom improvement mediated anger reduction in COPE (B = -.03, SE = .01, 95% CI [-.06, -.01]). The substance use models were insignificant. CONCLUSIONS Among veterans, integrated, trauma-focused treatments may be associated with greater guilt (directly) and anger (indirectly) reductions due to processing trauma. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya C. Saraiya
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
| | | | - Alyssa C. Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center
| | - Amber M. Jarnecke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Delisa G. Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Julianne C. Flanagan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center
| | - Therese K. Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Sudie E. Back
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center
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19
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Bennett MD, McDaniel JT, Albright DL. Chronic disease multimorbidity and substance use among African American men: veteran-non-veteran differences. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2023; 28:1145-1160. [PMID: 37331990 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2023.2224949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of the study was to explore the extent to which prior military service may moderate the relationship between chronic disease multimorbidity and substance use among African American men in the United States. DESIGN Data for this cross-sectional study was downloaded from the 2016 -2019 United States (US) National Survey on Drug Use and Health. We estimated three survey-weighted multivariable logistic regression models, where use of each of the following substances served as the dependent variables: illicit drugs, opioids, and tobacco. Differences in these outcomes were examined along two primary independent variables: veteran status and multimorbidity (and an interaction term for these variables). We also controlled for the following covariates: age, education, income, rurality, criminal behavior, and religiosity. RESULTS From the 37,203,237 (weighted N) African American men in the sample, approximately 17% reported prior military service. Veterans with ≥ 2 chronic diseases had higher rates of illicit drug use (aOR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.87; 32% vs. 28%) than non-veterans with ≥ 2 chronic diseases. Non-veterans with one chronic disease had higher rates of tobacco use (aOR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.69, 0.93; 29% vs. 26%) and opioid misuse (aOR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.36, 0.67; 29% vs. 18%) than veterans with one chronic disease. DISCUSSION Chronic disease multi-morbidity appears to be a context in which African American veterans may be at greater risk for certain undesirable health behaviors than African American non-veterans and at lower risk for others. This may be due to exposure to trauma, difficulty accessing care, socio-environmental factors, and co-occurring mental health conditions. These complex interactions may contribute to higher rates of SUDs among African American veterans compared to African American non-veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Daniel Bennett
- School of Social Work, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA
| | - Justin T McDaniel
- School of Human Sciences, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - David L Albright
- Department of Political Science, The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
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20
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Vujanovic AA, Back SE, Leonard SJ, Zoller L, Kaysen DL, Norman SB, Flanagan JC, Schmitz JM, Resick P. Mental Health Clinician Practices and Perspectives on Treating Adults with Co-Occurring Posttraumatic Stress and Substance Use Disorders. J Dual Diagn 2023; 19:189-198. [PMID: 37796916 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2023.2260338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUD) commonly co-occur and represent a complex, challenging clinical comorbidity. Meta-analytic studies and systematic reviews suggest that trauma-focused treatments are more efficacious than non-trauma focused interventions for co-occurring PTSD/SUD. However, relatively little is known about mental health clinicians' practices or preferences for treating co-occurring PTSD/SUD. The present study aimed to describe the current clinical practices of mental health clinicians who treat PTSD and/or SUD-related conditions and to assess interest in novel integrative treatments for PTSD/SUD. METHODS Licensed mental health clinicians (N = 76; Mage = 39.59, SD = 8.14) who treat PTSD and/or SUD completed an anonymous online survey from April 2021 to July 2021. RESULTS The majority (61.8%) of clinicians reported using integrative treatments for PTSD/SUD. The most commonly used trauma-focused treatments were 1) Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT: 71.1%) and 2) Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE: 68.4%) for PTSD. Approximately half (51.3%) of clinicians endorsed using Relapse Prevention (RP) for SUD. The vast majority (97.4%) of clinicians were somewhat or very interested in a new integrative CPT-RP intervention, and 94.7% of clinicians believed patients would be interested in a CPT-RP intervention. In the absence of an available evidence-based integrative treatment using CPT, 84.0% of clinicians reported modifying extant treatment protocols on their own to address PTSD and SUD concurrently. CONCLUSIONS The findings demonstrate mental health clinician support of integrative treatments for PTSD/SUD. The most commonly used trauma-focused intervention was CPT and clinicians expressed strong interest in an integrative intervention that combines CPT and RP. Implications for future treatment development are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anka A Vujanovic
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sudie E Back
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | | | - Debra L Kaysen
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- National Center for PTSD, Executive Division, White River Junction, VT, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- National Center for PTSD, Executive Division, White River Junction, VT, USA
- San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Julianne C Flanagan
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Joy M Schmitz
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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Jegede O, Manhapra A, Zhou B, Rhee TG, Rosenheck RA. Monotonic Association of Increasing Past-Year Substance Use Disorder across a Four-Level Trauma Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Hierarchy in a Nationwide Sample. J Dual Diagn 2023; 19:231-239. [PMID: 37796996 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2023.2260339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is limited information on the differences in the association of substance use disorders (SUD) with four clinically relevant hierarchical groups based on trauma exposure and its consequences (1-no trauma; 2-trauma but no PTSD; 3-remitted PTSD; and 4-current PTSD). METHODS Among adults enrolled in a large nationally representative survey, the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave III (NESARC III), we compared differences in SUD prevalence between each of the hierarchical trauma group and the prior group adjusting for potentially confounding factors. RESULTS Unadjusted results show that each increase in the hierarchy was associated with a greater likelihood of SUD diagnoses, even after adjusting for potentially confounding variables. However, after adjusting for covariates, comparison of adults with past to those with current PTSD showed persistence of SUD indicators. CONCLUSION SUD prevalence increased substantially with trauma exposure even without PTSD and monotonically increased further with past and current PTSD, respectively, illustrating the differential effect of the clinical consequences of trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwole Jegede
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ajay Manhapra
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- New England Mental Illness Research Education Clinical Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Hampton VA Medical center, Hampton, Virginia, USA
- Departments of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Psychiatry, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Bin Zhou
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Taeho Greg Rhee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- New England Mental Illness Research Education Clinical Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Robert A Rosenheck
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- New England Mental Illness Research Education Clinical Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
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22
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Ferrie ML, Lheureux A, Vujanovic AA, Zvolensky MJ, Raines AM. Co-Occurring Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms and Alcohol Use Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Drinking to Cope with PTSD Symptoms. J Dual Diagn 2023; 19:221-230. [PMID: 37851919 PMCID: PMC10753988 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2023.2260326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and hazardous drinking often co-occur. One widely acknowledged explanation for this co-occurrence is the self-medication hypothesis. However, only one study to date has explicitly examined the extent to which drinking to cope with trauma-related symptoms, rather than drinking to cope with negative affect more broadly, accounts for this association. METHOD Survey data were collected from a nationally representative sample of adults (n = 360; 48.9% female, Mage = 38.50 years, SD = 10.23). RESULTS Results revealed a significant indirect effect of PTSD symptom severity on alcohol use frequency and alcohol use-related problems via drinking to cope with PTSD symptoms but not alcohol use quantity or binge drinking frequency. Drinking to cope with negative affect did not indirectly mediate the relations between PTSD symptom severity and any of the alcohol use-related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Findings will be discussed with regard to previous and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara L. Ferrie
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Abby Lheureux
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Michael J. Zvolensky
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Behavioral Science, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- HEALTH Institute, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amanda M. Raines
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
- South Central Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University, New Orleans, LA, USA
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23
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Morgan‐López AA, Saavedra LM, Hien DA, Norman SB, Fitzpatrick SS, Ye A, Killeen TK, Ruglass LM, Blakey SM, Back SE. Differential symptom weighting in estimating empirical thresholds for underlying PTSD severity: Toward a "platinum" standard for diagnosis? Int J Methods Psychiatr Res 2023; 32:e1963. [PMID: 36789653 PMCID: PMC10485310 DOI: 10.1002/mpr.1963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Symptom counts as the basis for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) diagnoses in the DSM presume each symptom is equally reflective of underlying disorder severity. However, the "equal weight" assumption fails to fit PTSD symptom data when tested. The present study developed an enhanced PTSD diagnosis based on (a) a conventional PTSD diagnosis from a clinical interview and (b) an empirical classification of full PTSD that reflected the relative clinical weights of each symptom. METHOD Baseline structured interview data from Project Harmony (N = 2658) was used. An enhanced diagnosis for full PTSD was estimated using an empirical threshold from moderated nonlinear factor analysis (MNLFA) latent PTSD scale scores, in combination with a full conventional PTSD diagnosis based on interview data. RESULTS One in 4 patients in the sample had a PTSD diagnosis that was inconsistent with their empirical PTSD grouping, such that the enhanced diagnostic standard reduced the diagnostic discrepancy rate by 20%. Veterans, and in particular female Veterans, were at greatest odds for discrepancy between their underlying PTSD severity and DSM diagnosis. CONCLUSION Psychometric methodologies that differentially weight symptoms can complement DSM criteria and may serve as a platform for symptom prioritization for diagnoses in future editions of DSM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lissette M. Saavedra
- Community Health Research DivisionRTI InternationalResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Denise A. Hien
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use StudiesRutgers University–New BrunswickPiscatawayNew JerseyUSA
| | - Sonya B. Norman
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of CaliforniaSan DiegoVirginiaUSA
| | | | - Ai Ye
- Department of Psychology & NeuroscienceL.L. Thurstone Psychometric LaboratoryUNC‐Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Department PsychologieLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunichGermany
| | - Therese K. Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesMedical University of South CarolinaCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical CenterCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Lesia M. Ruglass
- Department of PsychologyCity College of New YorkNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Shannon M. Blakey
- Community Health Research DivisionRTI InternationalResearch Triangle ParkNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Sudie E. Back
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesMedical University of South CarolinaCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical CenterCharlestonSouth CarolinaUSA
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24
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Aurora P, LoSavio ST, Kimbrel NA, Beckham JC, Calhoun PS, Dillon KH. Examining the daily relationship between guilt, shame, and substance use among veterans with psychiatric disorders. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 8:100174. [PMID: 37753347 PMCID: PMC10518500 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Background Shame and guilt are key emotions known to amplify trauma-related symptoms in veterans. Maintenance of symptoms is facilitated by avoidance behaviors, such as substance use. However, limited research has examined the associations between shame, guilt, and substance use in daily life. Methods The current study sought to examine the cross-lagged association between shame, guilt, and substance use. Forty veterans completed 28 days of experience sampling reporting on their current emotional experiences and use of substances. Results Results suggest a reciprocal relationship among shame and guilt and substance use, such that shame and guilt separately predicted subsequent substance use, and substance use predicted subsequent shame and guilt. Conclusions These results highlight the dynamic relationship among shame, guilt, and substance use and suggest the potential value of conceptualizing these clinical targets as mutually reinforcing to inform integrative intervention strategies that can interrupt the in-the-moment cascade of negative consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallavi Aurora
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham NC, USA
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Stefanie T. LoSavio
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Nathan A. Kimbrel
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham NC, USA
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C. Beckham
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham NC, USA
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patrick S. Calhoun
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham NC, USA
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- VA Health Services Research and Development Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kirsten H. Dillon
- Durham VA Health Care System, Durham NC, USA
- VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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25
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Buckheit KA, Barden E, Shaw R, Possemato K, Mastroleo NR, Rauch SAM. Primary Care Treatment Integrating Motivation and Exposure for PTSD Symptoms and Hazardous Alcohol Use: A Case Series. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2023; 30:551-563. [PMID: 37745164 PMCID: PMC10513004 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and hazardous alcohol use are highly comorbid. Research on integrated interventions to address PTSD symptoms and hazardous alcohol use concurrently has demonstrated efficacy, yet integrated treatments are underutilized. Both patient (e.g., stigma, scheduling/logistics) and clinician (e.g., concern about symptom exacerbation and/or treatment dropout) barriers may impede utilization of integrated interventions among those with comorbid PTSD symptoms and hazardous alcohol use. Primary care behavioral health models (PCBH), in which embedded behavioral health providers deliver treatment to individuals with mild or moderate behavioral health symptoms in primary care, may help address treatment barriers by offering accessible behavioral health interventions in a destigmatizing setting. This paper presents two case examples from a randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of an integrated intervention for PTSD symptoms and hazardous alcohol use developed for and delivered in primary care. Outcome data and session-by-session content for two participants are included, along with discussion of barriers encountered during the course of treatment. Clinician-suggested strategies for navigating barriers to facilitate utilization of integrated interventions for PTSD symptoms and hazardous alcohol use are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eileen Barden
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Syracuse VA Medical Center and Binghamton University
| | - Rachael Shaw
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Western NY VA Healthcare Systems and University at Buffalo (SUNY)
| | - Kyle Possemato
- VA Center for Integrated Healthcare, Syracuse VA Medical Center
| | | | - Sheila A M Rauch
- Mental Health Service Line, Atlanta VA Healthcare System and Emory University School of Medicine
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26
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Gette JA, Nosen E, Schumacher JA. Predicting Reasons for Drinking in a Dually-Diagnosed Sample with PTSD and Substance Use Disorders. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 58:1438-1446. [PMID: 37331791 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2223300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Using the negative reinforcement and common factors frameworks, this work assessed whether and how anxiety sensitivity, distress tolerance, and impulsivity relate to reasons for drinking (RFD) in a residential treatment sample with co-occurring alcohol use disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder (AUD-PTSD). Demographic differences were also examined. Method: Participants were 75 (52.0% male, 78.7% white) adults at a residential substance use treatment facility who met criteria for AUD-PTSD with 98.67% meeting criteria for one or more substance use disorders in addition to AUD. Participants completed measures of anxiety sensitivity, distress tolerance, impulsivity, RFD, and AUD-PTSD symptoms. Univariate and multivariate linear regression was used with and without controlling for demographic variables (i.e., age, race, and sex). Results: The positive and negative urgency facets of impulsivity were positively related to both negative affect and cue/craving response RFD with relations maintained after controlling for demographic variables and including PTSD symptom severity (βs .30-.51). There were no significant relations between impulsivity and social RFD. No facets of anxiety sensitivity or distress tolerance were significantly related to RFD domains. Conclusions: Findings suggest that the urgency facets of impulsivity are crucial in understanding negative affect and cue/craving RFD. However, anxiety sensitivity and distress tolerance are not related to RFD in this dually diagnosed AUD-PTSD sample. Treatment considerations and future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Gette
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - E Nosen
- G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
| | - J A Schumacher
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi, USA
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27
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Molander O, Bjureberg J, Sahlin H, Beijer U, Hellner C, Ljótsson B. Integrated cognitive behavioral treatment for substance use and depressive symptoms: a homeless case series and feasibility study. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:76. [PMID: 37147667 PMCID: PMC10161417 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01305-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homelessness is associated with high prevalence of psychiatric disorders such as substance use disorders, including alcohol use disorder, and depression. METHODS This case series and feasibility trial evaluated a novel integrated cognitive behavioral treatment (ICBT), which was adapted specifically for homeless individuals and developed to treat substance use and depressive symptoms simultaneously. The ICBT was delivered among four homeless individuals enrolled in the Treatment First program (a social services program where treatment is offered in conjunction with temporary transitional housing), who had access to stable and sober housing milieus. RESULTS The ICBT was rated high in expectancy of improvement, credibility, and satisfaction, with few treatment-related adverse events, and fairly high treatment retention. At 12 months follow-up, three of four participants were not homeless anymore. Some participants experienced short-term reductions in substance use and/or depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The study provided preliminary support that the ICBT can be a feasible and potentially effective treatment for homeless individuals with substance use and/or depressive symptoms. However, the delivery format within the Treatment First program was not feasible. The ICBT could be offered within the social services Housing First program instead (where permanent housing is offered before treatment), or to non-homeless individuals. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered retrospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05329181).
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Affiliation(s)
- Olof Molander
- PelarbackenErsta Diakoni, Social Welfare Office for the Homeless, City of Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Plan 7, 113 64, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Johan Bjureberg
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Plan 7, 113 64, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Sahlin
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Plan 7, 113 64, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulla Beijer
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Plan 7, 113 64, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Clara Hellner
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Norra Stationsgatan 69, Plan 7, 113 64, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brjánn Ljótsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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28
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Gros DF, Allan NP, Koscinski B, Keller S, Acierno R. Influence of comorbid social anxiety disorder in PTSD treatment outcomes for Prolonged Exposure in female military sexual trauma survivors with PTSD. J Clin Psychol 2023; 79:1039-1050. [PMID: 36399326 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychiatric disorder that frequently presents alongside other comorbid diagnoses. Although several evidence-based psychotherapies have been well-studied for PTSD, limited research has focused on the influence of diagnostic comorbidity on their outcomes. The present study sought to investigate the influence of comorbid social anxiety disorder on treatment outcomes in patients with PTSD. METHODS One hundred and twelve treatment-seeking female veteran participants with PTSD completed baseline assessments and received 12-15 sessions of Prolonged Exposure. Symptom measures were completed biweekly as well as at immediate posttreatment, 3-month, and 6-month follow-ups. RESULTS Thirty (26.8%) participants seeking PTSD treatment also met diagnostic criteria for social anxiety disorder. Multilevel modeling was used to examine effects of social anxiety disorder diagnosis on post-intervention symptoms and revealed significantly worse outcomes for symptoms of PTSD and depression in participants with comorbid PTSD and social anxiety disorder. CONCLUSION Consistent with previous studies of co-occurring PTSD and depression, present findings suggest that comorbid diagnoses may adversely affect disorder-specific treatment outcomes. As such, the presence of diagnostic comorbidity may merit further consideration and potential adaptions to the traditional, disorder-specific assessment and treatment practices for PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel F Gros
- Mental Health Service, Ralph H. Johnson VA Healthcare System, Charleston, South Carolina, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas P Allan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA.,VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System Canandaigua, New York, USA
| | | | - Stephanie Keller
- Mental Health Service, Ralph H. Johnson VA Healthcare System, Charleston, South Carolina, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Ron Acierno
- Mental Health Service, Ralph H. Johnson VA Healthcare System, Charleston, South Carolina, USA.,Louis Faillace Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, USA
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29
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Peck KR, Badger GJ, Cole R, Higgins ST, Moxley-Kelly N, Sigmon SC. Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD in Individuals with Opioid Use Disorder: A Randomized Pilot Study. Addict Behav 2023; 143:107688. [PMID: 36989699 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nearly all individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) report lifetime trauma exposure and one-third meet diagnostic criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although prolonged exposure (PE) therapy is a first-line treatment for PTSD, little is known about the effects of PE in individuals with co-occurring OUD. Furthermore, its efficacy is commonly undermined by poor therapy attendance. This pilot study evaluated the feasibility and initial efficacy of a novel PE protocol for improving PE attendance and PTSD symptoms among buprenorphine- or methadone-maintained adults with PTSD. METHOD Thirty participants with co-occurring PTSD and OUD were randomized to receive either: (a) continued medications for OUD (MOUD) treatment as usual (TAU), (b) Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE), or (c) PE with financial incentives delivered contingent upon PE session attendance (PE+). Primary outcomes included PE session attendance, PTSD symptom severity, and use of opioids other than prescribed MOUD. RESULTS PE+ participants attended significantly more therapy sessions vs. PE (87% vs. 35%; p <.0001). PTSD symptom reductions were also significantly greater in the PE+ vs. TAU group (p =.046). Participants in the two PE conditions submitted significantly fewer urine samples that tested positive for opioids than TAU participants (0% vs. 22%; p =.007). CONCLUSIONS These findings provide preliminary support for the efficacy of PE+ for improving PE attendance and PTSD symptoms without prompting opioid relapse in individuals with co-occurring PTSD and OUD. These promising results justify a larger scale randomized clinical trial to more rigorously evaluate this novel treatment approach.
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30
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Back SE, Flanagan JC, Killeen T, Saraiya TC, Brown DG, Jarnecke AM, Rothbaum AO, Joseph J, Ana ES, de Arellano A, Shoemaker HL, Dixon RA, Nietert PJ, Brady KT. COPE and oxytocin for the treatment of co-occurring PTSD and alcohol use disorder: Design and methodology of a randomized controlled trial in U.S. military veterans. Contemp Clin Trials 2023; 126:107084. [PMID: 36646315 PMCID: PMC9998357 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A significant proportion of individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) also meet criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Military veterans are at increased risk for developing co-occurring AUD/PTSD, with prevalence rates 2-4 times higher than the general population. Research is needed to develop more effective treatments for this common comorbidity. The current investigation addresses this need by examining the synergistic effects of a novel pharmacotherapy combined with psychotherapy for co-occurring AUD/PTSD among veterans. Accumulating evidence suggests that the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) is a promising pharmacotherapy to augment psychotherapy for AUD/PTSD. OT targets neurobiological and behavioral dysregulation common to both AUD and PTSD, in particular, corticolimbic connectivity. Human and animal studies show OT reduces alcohol self-administration, tolerance, and withdrawal; enhances fear extinction; and promotes prosocial behaviors. The current study builds on previous work by examining OT among veterans with AUD/PTSD receiving Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders using Prolonged Exposure (COPE), an evidence-based integrated treatment. METHODS This paper describes the rationale, design, and methodology of a Stage II, 12-week, double-blind, randomized clinical trial of intranasal OT (40 IU) versus placebo combined with COPE among veterans (N = 180) with current AUD/PTSD. In addition, the effects of treatment on corticolimbic connectivity will be examined using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) at pre- and post-treatment. CONCLUSIONS The proposed study will provide new knowledge and mechanistic insights to accelerate research in this understudied area and may lead to improved treatment outcomes for co-occurring AUD/PTSD. CLINICALTRIALS gov: NCT04523922.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudie E Back
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Julianne C Flanagan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Therese Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Tanya C Saraiya
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Delisa G Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Amber M Jarnecke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Alex O Rothbaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Jane Joseph
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Elizabeth Santa Ana
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA; Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Abigail de Arellano
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Hannah L Shoemaker
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Reagan Ashley Dixon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Paul J Nietert
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Kathleen T Brady
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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31
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Saraiya TC, Jarnecke AM, Bauer AG, Brown DG, Killeen T, Back SE. Patient- and therapist-rated alliance predict improvements in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and substance use in integrated treatment. Clin Psychol Psychother 2023; 30:410-421. [PMID: 36509681 PMCID: PMC10079590 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Concurrent Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Use Disorders Using Prolonged Exposure (i.e., COPE) is an efficacious, integrated, psychotherapy that attends to PTSD and substance use disorders simultaneously. No study has examined how therapeutic alliance functions during the provision of COPE and how this compares to non-integrated treatments, such as relapse prevention (RP) for substance use disorders. Understanding the role of alliance in COPE versus RP could inform treatment refinement and ways to enhance treatment outcomes. METHODS Participants (N = 55 veterans) were randomized to 12, individual, weekly sessions of COPE or RP in a randomized clinical trial. Piecewise linear mixed effect models examined how mid-treatment (1) patient-rated alliance, (2) therapist-rated alliance, and (3) the convergence between patient- and therapist-rated alliance as measured by a difference score predicted reductions in PTSD symptoms and substance use across treatment and follow-up periods. RESULTS Both patient- and therapist-rated alliance predicted reductions in PTSD symptoms in COPE. Higher patient-rated alliance predicted lower percent days using substances in RP. Difference score models showed higher patient-rated alliance relative to therapist-rated alliance scores predicted symptom reductions in COPE whereas higher therapist-rated alliance scores relative to patient-rated alliance scores predicted symptom reductions in RP. DISCUSSION Preliminary findings show a unique relationship between the rater of the alliance and treatment modalities. Patient-rated alliance may be important in trauma-focused, integrated treatments whereas therapist-rated alliance may be more important in skills-focused, substance use interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya C. Saraiya
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Amber M. Jarnecke
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Alexandria G. Bauer
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Delisa G. Brown
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Therese Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sudie E. Back
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Hien DA, Morgan-López AA, Saavedra LM, Ruglass LM, Ye A, López-Castro T, Fitzpatrick S, Killeen TK, Norman SB, Ebrahimi CT, Back SE. Project Harmony: A Meta-Analysis With Individual Patient Data on Behavioral and Pharmacologic Trials for Comorbid Posttraumatic Stress and Alcohol or Other Drug Use Disorders. Am J Psychiatry 2023; 180:155-166. [PMID: 36475373 PMCID: PMC10016363 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.22010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatment efficacy for co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders is well established, yet direct evidence for comparative effectiveness across treatments is lacking. The present study compared the effectiveness of several behavioral and pharmacological therapies for adults with co-occurring PTSD and alcohol or other drug use disorders. METHODS A systematic search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted through December 2020 for trials targeting PTSD, alcohol or other drug use disorders, or both disorders (36 studies, N=4,046). Primary outcomes were severity scores for PTSD, alcohol use, and drug use, estimated via moderated nonlinear factor analysis. Propensity score weight-adjusted multilevel models were used. Model-predicted effect sizes were estimated for each treatment, and comparative effect sizes for each active arm against treatment as usual, at end of treatment and at 12-month follow-up. RESULTS Compared with treatment as usual, combining trauma-focused therapy and pharmacotherapy for substance use disorders showed the largest comparative effect sizes for PTSD severity (d=-0.92, 95% CI=-1.57, -0.30) and alcohol use severity (d=-1.10, 95% CI=-1.54, -0.68) at end of treatment. Other treatments with large comparative effect sizes included pharmacotherapies for alcohol or other drug use disorders, trauma-focused integrated therapies, and trauma-focused nonintegrated therapies. Reductions in outcomes for PTSD symptoms and alcohol use were observed for nearly all treatments. CONCLUSIONS The findings provide support for treating comorbid PTSD and substance use disorders using a variety of approaches, with alcohol-targeted pharmacotherapies and trauma-focused behavioral therapies as a combination of treatments that lead to early and sustained improvements in PTSD and alcohol use severity. Further treatment development is indicated for combining behavioral and pharmacological treatments for synergized impact and understanding the mechanisms of action and conditions under which each treatment type is optimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise A Hien
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Antonio A Morgan-López
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Lissette M Saavedra
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Lesia M Ruglass
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Ai Ye
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Teresa López-Castro
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Skye Fitzpatrick
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Therese K Killeen
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Sonya B Norman
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Chantel T Ebrahimi
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
| | - Sudie E Back
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick, Piscataway, N.J. (Hien, Ruglass, Ebrahimi); Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York (Ruglass, López-Castro); L.L. Thurstone Psychometric Laboratory, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (Ye); Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto (Fitzpatrick); Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston (Killeen, Back); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System (Norman);Department of Psychology, New School, New York (Ebrahimi)
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Comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder in low- and middle-income countries: A narrative review. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e5. [PMID: 36843880 PMCID: PMC9947613 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2022.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Much of the research on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) has been conducted in high-income countries (HICs). However, PTSD and AUD commonly co-occur (PTSD + AUD) are both associated with high global burden of disease, and disproportionately impact those in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This narrative review attempts to synthesize the research on prevalence, impact, etiological models, and treatment of PTSD + AUD drawing from research conducted in HICs and discussing the research that has been conducted to date in LMICs. The review also discusses overall limitations in the field, including a lack of research on PTSD + AUD outside of HICs, issues with measurement of key constructs, and limitations in sampling strategies across comorbidity studies. Future directions are discussed, including a need for rigorous research studies conducted in LMICs that focus on both etiological mechanisms and on treatment approaches.
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Chetty A, Guse T, Malema M. Integrated vs non-integrated treatment outcomes in dual diagnosis disorders: A systematic review. Health SA 2023; 28:2094. [PMID: 37151615 PMCID: PMC10157410 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v28i0.2094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The incidence of dual diagnosis (DD) (i.e. substance use disorders [SUD] and co-occurring mental disorders) is widespread; however, they vary widely in permutation and combination. As a result, establishing effective and empirically supported interventions for this clinical population remains challenging. Aim This study aimed to examine current literature on the treatment outcomes for patients with DD. Method A systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2009 and 2018 was conducted for two broad intervention categories identified by the literature: non-integrated and integrated treatment. Multiple electronic databases were searched using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA). Results The search generated a total of 743 studies, of which 11 satisfied the inclusion criteria. These studies were thematically synthesised into two main analytical themes: 'treatment outcomes' and 'reported strengths and limitations of DD treatment'. Specifically, integrated treatment held an advantage over non-integrated treatment in significantly improving psychiatric symptomatology. However, no significant benefits were found between integrated and non-integrated treatment regarding substance misuse and treatment retention. Conclusion Overall, the results provided insufficient evidence to support the enhanced efficacy of integrated or non-integrated treatment over the other in treating patients with DD. Contribution The study's findings were used to provide recommendations to inform the clinical psychological service delivery of dual diagnosis treatment in South Africa and also to identify gaps in the literature and highlight areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Chetty
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tharina Guse
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mosa Malema
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Milanak ME, Witcraft SM, Park JY, Hassell K, McMahon T, Wilkerson AK. A Transdiagnostic group therapy for sleep and anxiety among adults with substance use disorders: Protocol and pilot investigation. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1160001. [PMID: 37065898 PMCID: PMC10090550 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1160001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs) is challenging with high rates of treatment dropout and relapse, particularly among individuals with comorbid psychiatric conditions. Anxiety and insomnia are prevalent among those with SUD and exacerbate poor treatment outcomes. Interventions that concurrently target anxiety and insomnia during the early stages of SUD treatment are lacking. To this end, we investigated the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness in a single-arm pilot trial of an empirically informed group transdiagnostic intervention, Transdiagnostic SUD Therapy, to concurrently reduce anxiety and improve sleep among adults receiving treatment for SUD. Specifically, we hypothesized that participants would evidence declines in anxiety and insomnia and improvements in sleep health, a holistic, multidimensional pattern of sleep-wakefulness that promotes wellbeing. A secondary aim was to describe the protocol for Transdiagnostic SUD Therapy and how it may be implemented into a real-world addiction treatment setting. Method Participants were 163 adults (Mage = 43.23; 95.1% White; 39.93% female) participating in an intensive outpatient program for SUD who attended at least three of four Transdiagnostic SUD Therapy sessions. Participants had diverse SUDs (58.3% alcohol use disorder, 19.0% opioid use disorder) and nearly a third of the sample met criteria for two SUDs and comorbid mental health diagnoses (28.9% anxiety disorder, 24.6% major depressive disorder). Results As anticipated, anxiety and insomnia reduced significantly across the 4-week intervention period from clinical to subclinical severity, and sleep health significantly improved (ps < 0.001). These statistically significant improvements following Transdiagnostic SUD Therapy demonstrated medium to large effects (ds > 0.5). Conclusion Transdiagnostic SUD Therapy is designed to be flexibly administered in "real-world" clinical settings and, preliminarily, appears to be effective in improving emotional and behavioral factors that increase risk for return to substance use and poor SUD treatment outcomes. Additional work is needed to replicate these findings, determine the feasibility of widespread uptake of Transdiagnostic SUD Therapy, and examine whether the treatment effects translate to improvement in substance use outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa E. Milanak
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Sara M. Witcraft
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Jie Young Park
- Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine–Carolinas, Spartanburg, SC, United States
| | | | - Tierney McMahon
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Allison K. Wilkerson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- *Correspondence: Allison K. Wilkerson,
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Simpson TL, Kaysen DL, Fleming CB, Rhew IC, Jaffe AE, Desai S, Hien DA, Berliner L, Donovan D, Resick PA. Cognitive Processing Therapy or Relapse Prevention for comorbid Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Use Disorder: A randomized clinical trial. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276111. [PMID: 36445895 PMCID: PMC9707793 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare a Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) treatment (Cognitive Processing Therapy; CPT), an Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) treatment (Relapse Prevention; RP), and assessment-only (AO) for those meeting diagnostic criteria for both PTSD and AUD. METHOD Participants with current PTSD/AUD (N = 101; mean age = 42.10; 56% female) were initially randomized to CPT, RP, or AO and assessed post-treatment or 6-weeks post-randomization (AO). AO participants were then re-randomized to CPT or RP. Follow-ups were at immediate post-treatment, 3-, and 12-months. Mixed effects intent-to-treat models compared conditions on changes in PTSD symptom severity, drinking days, and heavy drinking days. RESULTS At post-treatment, participants assigned to CPT showed significantly greater improvement than those in AO on PTSD symptom severity (b = -9.72, 95% CI [-16.20, -3.23], d = 1.22); the RP and AO groups did not differ significantly on PTSD. Both active treatment conditions significantly decreased heavy drinking days relative to AO (CPT vs. AO: Count Ratio [CR] = 0.51, 95% CI [0.30, 0.88]; RP vs. AO: CR = 0.34, 95% CI [0.19, 0.59]). After re-randomization both treatment conditions showed substantial improvements in PTSD symptoms and drinking between pre-treatment and post-treatment over the 12-month follow-up period, with RP showing an advantage on heavy drinking days. CONCLUSION Treatments targeting one or the other aspects of the PTSD/AUD comorbidity may have salutary effects on both PTSD and drinking outcomes. These preliminary results suggest that people with this comorbidity may have viable treatment options whether they present for mental health or addiction care. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01663337).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L. Simpson
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment and Education, VA Puget Sound Health Care, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Debra L. Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Charles B. Fleming
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Isaac C. Rhew
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Anna E. Jaffe
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States of America
| | - Sruti Desai
- Center for the Study of Health and Risk Behaviors, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Denise A. Hien
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University, Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Piscataway, NJ, United States of America
| | - Lucy Berliner
- Harborview Center for Sexual Assault and Traumatic Stress, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Dennis Donovan
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Patricia A. Resick
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke Health, Durham, NC, United States of America
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Bedard-Gilligan M, Kaysen D, Cordero RM, Huh D, Walker D, Kaiser-Schauer E, Robjant K, Saluskin K, Pearson C. Adapting narrative exposure therapy with a tribal community: A community-based approach. J Clin Psychol 2022; 78:2087-2108. [PMID: 35621371 PMCID: PMC9811656 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE American Indian (AI) individuals are at increased risk for present-day trauma exposure and associated negative outcomes, as well as ongoing effects of intergenerational trauma exposure and adversity. However, few empirically supported treatments exist that are specifically tailored and/or tested with AI communities. This study describes the process of selecting, adapting, and implementing narrative exposure therapy (NET) with an AI community. METHODS A community and academic partnership was formed and worked together to make culturally mindful changes to NET to best fit the needs of the community. The partnership incorporated community leaders/Elders (n = 7), providers (n = 11), and participants seeking treatment (n = 50) to implement an iterative process of adapting and implementing the adapted form of NET. RESULTS Key adaptions included addressing historical and intergenerational trauma, greater protections for confidentiality in a small community, and incorporation of cultural customs and traditions. Overall, the adapted form of NET was favorably received by the participants, and the implementation appeared to be feasible, with improved retention over past trials of adapted trauma-focused treatments with this community and with highly positive satisfaction ratings and feedback. CONCLUSIONS NET was shown to be an appropriate approach for this AI community and should be considered as a treatment option for other AI communities. Future work should consider strategies outlined in this adaption as well as following a similar process for working with AI communities to implement culturally appropriate interventions for trauma-related symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Bedard-Gilligan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Debra Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Rebeca Marin Cordero
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David Huh
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Denise Walker
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elisabeth Kaiser-Schauer
- Vivo International, Konstanz, Germany
- Center of Excellence for Psychotraumatology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, USA
| | | | - Kathy Saluskin
- Yakama Nation Behavioral Health, Toppenish, Washington, USA
| | - Cynthia Pearson
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Bedard-Gilligan MA, Dworkin ER, Kaysen D, Ojalehto HJ, Stappenbeck CA, Lindgren KP. A pilot study on the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a brief text message intervention for co-occurring alcohol misuse and PTSD symptoms in a community sample. J Anxiety Disord 2022; 91:102615. [PMID: 35988440 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2022.102615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Accessible, brief, and self-directed intervention are needed to improve treatment access for individuals with co-occuring PTSD and alcohol misuse. This pilot study tests the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a brief text message intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy plus message framing (CBT + Framing) compared to active control providing kind support and attention (KAM), to reduce PTSD symptoms and alcohol use. Two waves of community-based data collection (Wave 1 n = 50; Wave 2 n = 59) were completed. Participants self-reported symptoms at baseline, post-intervention, and 8-week follow-up. Engagement and retention were high, suggesting messages were feasible and acceptable. Across waves and conditions, from baseline to follow-up primary outcomes of PTSD symptoms (medium to large effects), weekly drinks (medium effects), and heavy episodic drinking (small to medium effects) decreased. Consistent with hypotheses, CBT + Framing outperformed KAM for PTSD at post in Wave 2 and for number of heavy drinking episodes at both post and follow-up in Wave 1. Contrary to hypotheses, KAM outperformed CBT + Framing for PTSD at post in Wave 1, and minimal differences were observed between conditions for weekly drinks in both waves. Future studies should continue to develop and test brief, accessible interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily R Dworkin
- University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry, Box 356560, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Debra Kaysen
- University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry, Box 356560, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Heidi J Ojalehto
- University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry, Box 356560, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Cynthia A Stappenbeck
- University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry, Box 356560, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Kristen P Lindgren
- University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry, Box 356560, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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ten Holt J, van Emmerik AA, Blanken P, Borgdorff JE, ten Holt PP, Kok RM, Mouthaan J, Pieterse B, Van den Berg JF. Direct and Indirect Exposure to Trauma, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms, and Poor Subjective Sleep Quality in Patients with Substance Use Disorder. PSYCHIAT CLIN PSYCH 2022; 32:188-195. [PMID: 38766672 PMCID: PMC11099636 DOI: 10.5152/pcp.2022.22368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the frequent co-occurrence of posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder, screening for trauma exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms is not a routine practice in substance use disorder clinics. The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence of exposure to traumatic events, posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, and subjective sleep quality in substance use disorder inpatients after detoxification. In addition, we analyzed associations of sociodemographics, direct and indirect exposure to traumatic events, and sleep quality with posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity. Methods Adults diagnosed with substance use disorder (n = 188; 25% women, mean age 46.6 ± 12.3 years) from 2 inpatient addiction clinics were assessed at approximately 4 days post-admission for age, gender, educational level, self-reported substance use, trauma exposure, general and posttraumatic stress disorder-specific subjective sleep quality, and posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity. Correlates of posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity were identified with linear regression analyses. Results The prevalence of direct trauma exposure was high (89%), 51% of participants screened positive for posttraumatic stress disorder and 87% reported clinically significant poor sleep quality. Younger age, female gender, direct and indirect exposure to more traumatic events, and poor subjective sleep quality were associated with more severe posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Conclusion Nearly all substance use disorder patients admitted for detoxification in our study had been directly or indirectly exposed to 1 or more traumatic events, and many reported posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and poor sleep quality. Younger and female substance use disorder patients were at higher risk of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Our results emphasize the need for systematic screening for direct and indirect trauma exposure, posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, and poor sleep quality in patients admitted for clinical substance use disorder treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia ten Holt
- Parnassia Addiction Research Centre (PARC), Parnassia Group, The Hague, Netherlands
| | | | - Peter Blanken
- Parnassia Group Academy, Parnassia Group, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Jesse E. Borgdorff
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Pieter P.C. ten Holt
- Parnassia Addiction Research Centre (PARC), Parnassia Group, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Rob M. Kok
- Brijder Addiction Treatment Clinic, Parnassia Group, Alkmaar, Netherlands
| | - Joanne Mouthaan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bouwe Pieterse
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Julia F. Van den Berg
- Brijder Addiction Treatment Clinic, Parnassia Group, Alkmaar, Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Saavedra LM, Morgan-López AA, Back SE, Patel SV, Hien DA, Killeen TK, Norman SB, Fitzpatrick S, Ebrahimi CT, Ruglass LM. Measurement Error-Corrected Estimation of Clinically Significant Change Trajectories for Interventions Targeting Comorbid PTSD and Substance Use Disorders in OEF/OIF Veterans. Behav Ther 2022; 53:1009-1023. [PMID: 35987532 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
In randomized control trials (RCTs), a focus on average differences between treatment arms often limits our understanding of whether individuals show clinically significant improvement or deterioration. The present study examined differences in individual-level clinical significance trajectories between Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders Using Prolonged Exposure (COPE) and Relapse Prevention (RP). Eighty-one treatment-seeking veterans with a comorbid PTSD/SUD diagnosis were randomized to COPE or RP; data from an additional n = 48 patients who did not meet criteria for both disorders was used to establish a normative threshold. A newly developed, modernized approach to the Jacobson and Truax (1991) clinically significant change framework, using (a) moderated nonlinear factor analysis (MNLFA) scale scoring and (b) measurement error-corrected multilevel modeling (MEC-MLM) was used; this approach was compared to other approaches using conventional total scores and/or assuming no measurement error. Using a conventional approach to estimating the Reliable Change Index (RCI) yielded no differences between COPE and RP in the percentage of patients achieving statistically significant improvement (SSI; 88.9% for both groups). However, under MNLFA/MEC-MLM, higher percentages of patients receiving COPE (75.0%) achieved SSI compared to RP (40.7%). Findings suggest that, even though COPE and RP appear to reduce the same number of PTSD symptoms, MNLFA scoring of outcome measures gives greater weight to interventions that target and reduce "hallmark" PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Denise A Hien
- Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers University-New Brunswick
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Barroca NCB, Della Santa G, Suchecki D, García-Cairasco N, Umeoka EHDL. Challenges in the use of animal models and perspectives for a translational view of stress and psychopathologies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 140:104771. [PMID: 35817171 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The neurobiology and development of treatments for stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders rely heavily on animal models. However, the complexity of these disorders makes it difficult to model them entirely, so only specific features of human psychopathology are emulated and these models should be used with great caution. Importantly, the effects of stress depend on multiple factors, like duration, context of exposure, and individual variability. Here we present a review on pre-clinical studies of stress-related disorders, especially those developed to model posttraumatic stress disorder, major depression, and anxiety. Animal models provide relevant evidence of the underpinnings of these disorders, as long as face, construct, and predictive validities are fulfilled. The translational challenges faced by scholars include reductionism and anthropomorphic/anthropocentric interpretation of the results instead of a more naturalistic and evolutionary understanding of animal behavior that must be overcome to offer a meaningful model. Other limitations are low statistical power of analysis, poor evaluation of individual variability, sex differences, and possible conflicting effects of stressors depending on specific windows in the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayara Cobra Barreiro Barroca
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Science, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Della Santa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Science, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Deborah Suchecki
- Department of Psychobiology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Norberto García-Cairasco
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Science, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Henrique de Lima Umeoka
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavioral Science, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; School of Medicine, University Center UniCerrado, Goiatuba, GO, Brazil
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Watkins LE, Patton SC, Drexler K, A. M. Rauch S, Rothbaum BO. Clinical Effectiveness of an Intensive Outpatient Program for Integrated Treatment of Comorbid Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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43
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Goodrum NM, Bernard DL, Moreland AD. Interpersonal Violence, PTSD, and Substance Use Types among Women Receiving Substance Use Treatment. J Dual Diagn 2022; 18:123-134. [PMID: 35802744 PMCID: PMC9721397 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2022.2090649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Many women receiving substance use treatment report histories of interpersonal violence (IV) victimization, including physical and sexual assault. IV is a risk factor for mental and behavioral health difficulties such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD). Consistent with the self-medication hypothesis, PTSD may explain elevated SUD among IV survivors. Yet, few studies have investigated whether PTSD may have differential mediating effects for different substances, which has significant treatment implications. Methods: In 124 women (M age = 35.37, SD = 11.90) in substance use treatment, we examined PTSD symptoms as a mediator between IV and severity of different types of substance use, including alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, and opioid use. Participants completed self-report measures including the ASSIST, PCL-5, and LEC-5. Data were analyzed using path analysis in Mplus 8.3. Both dichotomous and continuous outcomes of problematic substance use outcomes were examined. Results: Most women (53.3%) reported problematic substance use with at least one substance, including opioids (39.7%), cocaine (13.0%), alcohol (9.6%), and cannabis (5.6%). Most (83.2%) of the sample reported at least one IV incident. On average, women reported clinically significant PTSD symptom severity. When problematic substance use was examined dichotomously, findings revealed significant indirect effects from IV exposure to opioid (β = 0.10, p = .010) and cocaine use (β = 0.07, p = .039) via elevated PTSD symptoms. There were no significant indirect effects for problematic alcohol (β = 0.03, p = .260) or cannabis use (β = 0.02, p = .562). When substance use was examined continuously, results revealed significant indirect effects from IV exposure to opioid (β = 0.09, p = .017), cocaine use (β = 0.09, p = .015), and alcohol use (β = 0.08, p = .020) via elevated PTSD symptoms. Indirect effects for cannabis use remained nonsignificant (β = 0.05, p = .100). Conclusions: IV survivors may be particularly at risk for opioid and cocaine misuse because of elevated PTSD symptoms. Treatments that integrate PTSD and SUD are needed to simultaneously target traumatic stress and substance use. Women with opioid and cocaine misuse may particularly benefit from trauma-focused exposure-based psychotherapy to reduce symptoms of PTSD, and thus, decrease opioid and cocaine misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada M Goodrum
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Donte L Bernard
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Missouri, USA.,National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Angela D Moreland
- National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Morgan-López AA, Hien DA, Saraiya TC, Saavedra LM, Norman SB, Killeen TK, Simpson TL, Fitzpatrick S, Mills KL, Ruglass LM, Back SE, López-Castro T. Estimating posttraumatic stress disorder severity in the presence of differential item functioning across populations, comorbidities, and interview measures: Introduction to Project Harmony. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:926-940. [PMID: 35124864 PMCID: PMC9844237 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Multiple factor analytic and item response theory studies have shown that items/symptoms vary in their relative clinical weights in structured interview measures for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite these findings, the use of total scores, which treat symptoms as though they are equally weighted, predominates in practice, with the consequence of undermining the precision of clinical decision-making. We conducted an integrative data analysis (IDA) study to harmonize PTSD structured interview data (i.e., recoding of items to a common symptom metric) from 25 studies (total N = 2,568). We aimed to identify (a) measurement noninvariance/differential item functioning (MNI/DIF) across multiple populations, psychiatric comorbidities, and interview measures simultaneously and (b) differences in inferences regarding underlying PTSD severity between scale scores estimated using moderated nonlinear factor analysis (MNLFA) and a total score analog model (TSA). Several predictors of MNI/DIF impacted effect size differences in underlying severity across scale scoring methods. Notably, we observed MNI/DIF substantial enough to bias inferences on underlying PTSD severity for two groups: African Americans and incarcerated women. The findings highlight two issues raised elsewhere in the PTSD psychometrics literature: (a) bias in characterizing underlying PTSD severity and individual-level treatment outcomes when the psychometric model underlying total scores fails to fit the data and (b) higher latent severity scores, on average, when using DSM-5 (net of MNI/DIF) criteria, by which multiple factors (e.g., Criterion A discordance across DSM editions, changes to the number/type of symptom clusters, changes to the symptoms themselves) may have impacted severity scoring for some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Denise A. Hien
- Center for Alcohol Studies, Rutgers University–Piscataway, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Tanya C. Saraiya
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Sonya B. Norman
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California–San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Therese K. Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Tracy L. Simpson
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | | | - Lesia M. Ruglass
- Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sudie E. Back
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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45
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Froelich J, Timko C, Woodhead EL. Motives for substance use and 6-month substance use outcomes among detoxification patients with a history of physical or sexual abuse or posttraumatic stress disorder. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:976-987. [PMID: 35255172 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Trauma-exposed individuals with a history of physical or sexual abuse or documented posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis may use substances to address trauma-related symptoms. However, the motives for using substances among adults with a trauma history or PTSD are unclear despite their informative role in treatment planning. Additionally, trauma is associated with poorer substance use outcomes, although this has not been examined among detoxification patients. The current study examined motives for substance use at baseline and substance use outcomes during 6 months postbaseline among 298 veteran detoxification patients (i.e., alcohol, opioids, or both) with and without (a) a history of physical or sexual abuse and (b) a PTSD diagnosis. At baseline, participants with a physical or sexual abuse history were more likely to report the use of substances to temporarily lower stress, forget problems, and avoid uncomfortable feelings than those without this history, ds = 0.25-0.40. Compared with participants without a PTSD diagnosis, participants with diagnosed PTSD were more likely to report using substances to temporarily lower stress, d = 0.25. Longitudinal analyses demonstrated that the baseline characteristics of physical abuse history, sexual abuse history, and diagnosed PTSD were all associated with higher scores on a measure of risk factors for relapse (e.g., cravings, family/social problems) as assessed during the postdetoxification period, φ = .13, .10, and .09, respectively. Detoxification patients with physical and/or sexual abuse histories or PTSD diagnoses may need treatments that better address trauma symptoms to help them sustain abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessilyn Froelich
- National Center for PTSD, Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA.,Department of Psychology, San José State University, San José, California, USA
| | - Christine Timko
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System, Menlo Park, California, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Erin L Woodhead
- Department of Psychology, San José State University, San José, California, USA
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46
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Walter KH, Levine JA, Madra NJ, Beltran JL, Glassman LH, Thomsen CJ. Gender differences in disorders comorbid with posttraumatic stress disorder among U.S. Sailors and Marines. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:988-998. [PMID: 35218250 PMCID: PMC9306964 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Psychological comorbidity, the co-occurrence of mental health disorders, is more often the rule than the exception among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research shows that prevalence estimates for specific psychological disorders differ by gender; however, little is known about whether these patterns persist in the presence of a comorbid PTSD diagnosis. This study examined gender differences in prevalence estimates for conditions comorbid with PTSD using medical records for 523,626 active duty U.S. Sailors and Marines who entered the military over an 8-year period. Using chi-square tests of independence, we detected statistically significant gender differences for specific comorbid conditions in the subsample of 9,447 service members with a PTSD diagnosis. Women were more likely than men to have PTSD with comorbid adjustment, OR = 1.35; depressive, OR = 1.71; and generalized anxiety or other anxiety disorders, OR = 1.16, with the largest effects for eating, OR = 12.60, and personality disorders, OR = 2.97. In contrast, women were less likely than men to have a diagnosis of PTSD with comorbid alcohol use, OR = 0.69, and drug use disorders, OR = 0.72, with the largest effects for insomnia, OR = 0.42, and traumatic brain injury, OR = 0.17. No significant gender differences emerged for comorbid bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, panic/phobic, psychotic, or somatoform/dissociative disorders, ps = .029-.314. The results show gender differences in conditions comorbid with PTSD generally align with internalizing and externalizing dimensions. Differences in comorbidities with PTSD between women and men could have implications for treatment development and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen H. Walter
- Health and Behavioral SciencesNaval Health Research CenterSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jordan A. Levine
- Health and Behavioral SciencesNaval Health Research CenterSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA,LeidosRestonVirginiaUSA
| | - Naju J. Madra
- Health and Behavioral SciencesNaval Health Research CenterSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA,LeidosRestonVirginiaUSA
| | - Jessica L. Beltran
- Health and Behavioral SciencesNaval Health Research CenterSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA,LeidosRestonVirginiaUSA
| | - Lisa H. Glassman
- Health and Behavioral SciencesNaval Health Research CenterSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA,LeidosRestonVirginiaUSA
| | - Cynthia J. Thomsen
- Health and Behavioral SciencesNaval Health Research CenterSan DiegoCaliforniaUSA
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47
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Jarnecke AM, Saraiya TC, Brown DG, Richardson J, Killeen T, Back SE. Examining the role of social support in treatment for co-occurring substance use disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder. Addict Behav Rep 2022; 15:100427. [PMID: 35480064 PMCID: PMC9036141 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2022.100427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Social support may be a critical mechanism in the treatment of co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, no studies have examined how social support changes as a function of treatment or predicts treatment outcome in a Veteran population with co-occurring SUD and PTSD. Method The current study is a secondary analysis that examined social support over the course of treatment for co-occurring SUD and PTSD (N = 81). Analyses were conducted to examine if a) social support predicts change in substance use and PTSD symptoms, respectively, over the course of treatment and during follow-up, and b) substance use and PTSD symptoms, respectively, predicts change in social support over treatment and during follow-up. Results The findings revealed that between-person social support moderated decreases in substance use (B = -0.17, SE = 0.07, p = 0.017) and PTSD symptom severity (B = -0.12, SE = 0.05, p = 0.009) during treatment but not during follow-up. Within-person substance use and PTSD symptom severity predicted social support but substance use and PTSD symptoms did not moderate changes in social support during treatment or follow-up. Conclusions The findings highlight the critical role of social support during treatment in enhancing outcomes for individuals with co-occurring SUD and PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber M Jarnecke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Tanya C Saraiya
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Delisa G Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - James Richardson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Therese Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Sudie E Back
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States.,Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, United States
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48
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Gandelman EM, Miller SA, Back SE. Imaginal exposure processing during Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders using Prolonged Exposure (COPE) therapy: Examination of linguistic markers of cohesiveness. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:682-693. [PMID: 34979039 PMCID: PMC9035056 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders Using Prolonged Exposure (COPE) is an integrated, evidence-based treatment that results in significant reductions in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) severity. Emotional processing theory suggests that successful prolonged exposure-based treatments should result in more cohesive trauma narratives due to better integration and organization of trauma memory into cognitive conceptualizations of fear. Therefore, we hypothesized that language used by patients would become more cohesive over time and increased language cohesion would be related to larger reductions in PTSD and SUD outcomes. Broadly, language cohesion refers to several linguistic devices that help establish and cohere meaning throughout spoken and written discourse (e.g., increased use of transition words like "and," "then," and "but"). This was the first known study to examine changes in language related to both PTSD and SUD severity during COPE treatment. The sample included 28 military veterans with current comorbid PTSD/SUD enrolled in a larger COPE study. A text analysis program, Coh-Metrix, was used to analyze language cohesiveness. No language cohesion variables significantly changed over time. Narrativity levels significantly moderated change in PTSD outcomes, R β 2 $R_\beta ^2\;$ = 0.11. Adversative connectives significantly moderated change in SUD outcomes, R β 2 $R_\beta ^2\;$ = 0.26. The findings illuminate potential processes underlying successful COPE treatment. Less use of language conveying a narrative and more use of contrast-indicative words (e.g., but, whereas) was associated with larger reductions in PTSD and SUD outcomes during treatment. These results contribute to the extant literature on associations between trauma exposure, language, and emotional processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin M. Gandelman
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Steven A. Miller
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sudie E. Back
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA,Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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49
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Badour CL, Flanagan JC, Allan NP, Gilmore AK, Gros DF, Killeen T, Korte KJ, Brown DG, Kolnogorova K, Back SE. Temporal dynamics of symptom change among veterans receiving an integrated treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:546-558. [PMID: 34773928 PMCID: PMC9035042 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The present study examined temporal patterns of symptom change during treatment for comorbid posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUDs). We hypothesized that PTSD symptom severity would predict subsequent-session substance use and that this association would be particularly strong among patients who received an integrated treatment versus SUD-only treatment. Participants were 81 United States military veterans with current PTSD and an SUD who were enrolled in a 12-week, randomized controlled trial examining the efficacy of an integrated treatment called Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders Using Prolonged Exposure (COPE) compared with cognitive behavioral relapse prevention therapy (RP). Lagged multilevel models indicated that PTSD symptom improvement did not significantly predict the likelihood of next-session substance use (likelihood of use: B = 0.03, SE = 0.02, p = .141; percentage of days using B = -0.02, SE = 0.01, p = .172. Neither substance use, B = 1.53, SE = 1.79, p = .391, nor frequency of use, B = 0.26, SE = 0.50, p = .612, predicted next-session PTSD symptom severity in either treatment condition. Stronger associations between PTSD symptoms and next-session substance use were expected given the self-medication hypothesis. Additional research is needed to better understand the temporal dynamics of symptom change as well as the specific mediators and mechanisms underlying symptom change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christal L. Badour
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Julianne C. Flanagan
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Mental Health Service Line, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Nicholas P. Allan
- Department of Psychology, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
- VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Health Care System, Canandaigua, New York, USA
| | - Amanda K. Gilmore
- Department of Health Policy & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Daniel F. Gros
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Mental Health Service Line, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Therese Killeen
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kristina J. Korte
- Psychiatry Department, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Delisa G. Brown
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Sudie E. Back
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
- Mental Health Service Line, Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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50
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Beckman KL, Williams EC, Hebert PL, Frost MC, Rubinsky AD, Hawkins EJ, Littman AJ, Lehavot K. Associations Among Military Sexual Trauma, Opioid Use Disorder, and Gender. Am J Prev Med 2022; 62:377-386. [PMID: 34742619 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2021.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid use disorder and high-risk opioid prescription increase the risks for overdose and death. In Veterans, military sexual trauma is associated with increased risk for assorted health conditions. This study evaluates the association of military sexual trauma with opioid use disorder and high-risk opioid prescription and potential moderation by gender. METHODS In a national sample of Veterans Health Administration outpatients receiving care from October 1, 2009 to August 1, 2017, logistic regression models were fit to evaluate the associations between military sexual trauma and opioid use disorder and high-risk opioid prescription, adjusting for demographic and clinical covariates. A second set of models included a gender X military sexual trauma interaction. Analyses were conducted in 2020-2021. RESULTS Patients with history of military sexual trauma (n=327,193) had 50% higher odds of opioid use disorder diagnosis (AOR=1.50, 95% CI=1.45, 1.54, p<0.001) and 5% higher odds of high-risk opioid prescription (AOR=1.05, 95% CI=1.04, 1.07, p<0.001) than those without history of military sexual trauma (n=7,738,665). The effect of military sexual trauma on opioid use disorder was stronger in men than in women . The predicted probability of opioid use disorder among men with history of military sexual trauma (1.5%) was nearly double that of women with history of military sexual trauma (0.8%). CONCLUSIONS Military sexual trauma was a significant risk factor for opioid use disorder and high-risk opioid prescription, with the former association particularly strong in men. Clinical care for Veterans with military sexual trauma should consider elevated risk of opioid use disorder and high-risk opioid prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry L Beckman
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
| | - Emily C Williams
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; COIN: Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington
| | - Paul L Hebert
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; COIN: Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington
| | - Madeline C Frost
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; COIN: Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington
| | - Anna D Rubinsky
- COIN: Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington; Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Eric J Hawkins
- COIN: Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington; Center for Substance Addiction Treatment and Education, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Alyson J Littman
- COIN: Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington; Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Seattle Epidemiologic Research and Information Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington
| | - Keren Lehavot
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; COIN: Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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