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Chang CJ, Livingston NA, Rashkovsky KT, Harper KL, Kuehn KS, Khalifian C, Harned MS, Tucker RP, Depp CA. A Scoping Review of Suicide Prevention Interventions for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Other Sexual and Gender Minority Individuals. LGBT Health 2024. [PMID: 38722250 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2023.0262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This scoping review summarizes the literature on suicide-specific psychological interventions among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual and gender minority (LGBTQ+) people to synthesize existing findings and support future intervention research and dissemination. Methods: Electronic databases PsycInfo and PubMed were searched for reports of psychological intervention studies with suicide-related outcome data among LGBTQ+ people. A total of 1269 articles were screened, and 19 studies met inclusion criteria (k = 3 examined suicide-specific interventions tailored to LGBTQ+ people, k = 4 examined nontailored suicide-specific interventions, k = 11 examined minority stress- or LGBTQ+ interventions that were not suicide-specific, and k = 1 examined other types of interventions). Results: Synthesis of this literature was made challenging by varied study designs, and features limit confidence in the degree of internal and external validity of the interventions evaluated. The only established suicide-specific intervention examined was Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and minority stress- and LGBTQ-specific interventions rarely targeted suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs). Nevertheless, most interventions reviewed demonstrated support for feasibility and/or acceptability. Only five studies tested suicide-related outcome differences between an LGBTQ+ group and a cisgender/heterosexual group. These studies did not find significant differences in STBs, but certain subgroups such as bisexual individuals may exhibit specific treatment disparities. Conclusion: Given the dearth of research, more research examining interventions that may reduce STBs among LGBTQ+ people is critically needed to address this public health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy J Chang
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katerine T Rashkovsky
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Kelly L Harper
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kevin S Kuehn
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Chandra Khalifian
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Melanie S Harned
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Raymond P Tucker
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Colin A Depp
- Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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Mathes Winnicki BM, Lee DJ, Hawn SE, Livingston NA, Marx BP, Keane TM. Alcohol consumption and dependence risk among male and female Veterans: Trajectories and predictors. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 257:111138. [PMID: 38430789 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With few exceptions, previously conducted research on hazardous drinking among Veterans has employed samples in which the majority of participants identify as male. In addition, past studies have solely focused on alcohol consumption, rather than associated risk for dependence. In this study, we expanded upon the extant literature by investigating sex differences in trajectories and predictors of change in alcohol consumption and dependence risk among post-9/11 Veterans. METHODS A national sample of 1649 Veterans (50.0% female) were recruited in a five-wave longitudinal study that followed Veterans for up to 16 years after deployment. We used growth curve modeling to investigate trajectories of change in alcohol consumption and dependence risk among men and women Veterans. We examined predictors of growth, including demographics, support and resources, psychiatric symptoms, and trauma exposure. RESULTS Among male Veterans, alcohol consumption and dependence risk remained stagnant, which is in contrast to past work using non-Veteran samples. For female Veterans, consumption exhibited initial reductions that decelerated, and dependence risk reduced at a continuous rate. PTSD diagnosis was a significant predictor of individual differences in growth for men. Psychiatric symptoms (i.e., PTSD diagnosis, probable depression diagnosis, suicidal ideation) and psychosocial functioning were significant predictors of decreasing alcohol use for women. CONCLUSIONS Results highlight important sex differences in patterns and predictors of change in alcohol consumption and dependence risk among post-9/11 Veterans. Findings are discussed in relation to screening for hazardous alcohol use and intervention strategies in this at-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany M Mathes Winnicki
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Daniel J Lee
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sage E Hawn
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Brian P Marx
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Terence M Keane
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
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Wolfe HL, Vimalananda VG, Wong DH, Reisman JI, Rao SR, Shipherd JC, Blosnich JR, Livingston NA, Jasuja GK. Patient Characteristics Associated with Receiving Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy in the Veterans Health Administration. Transgend Health 2024; 9:151-161. [PMID: 38694620 PMCID: PMC11059777 DOI: 10.1089/trgh.2022.0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to examine patient characteristics associated with receipt of gender-affirming hormone therapy in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Methods This cross-sectional study included a national cohort of 9555 transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients with TGD-related diagnosis codes who received care in the VHA from 2006 to 2018. Logistic regression models were used to determine the association of health conditions and documented social stressors with receipt of gender affirming hormone therapy. Results Of the 9555 TGD patients, 57.4% received gender-affirming hormone therapy in the VHA. In fully adjusted models, patients who had following characteristics were less likely to obtain gender-affirming hormones in the VHA: Black, non-Hispanic versus white (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52-0.72), living in the Northeast versus the West (aOR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.62-0.84), a documented drug use disorder (aOR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.47-0.68), ≥3 versus no comorbidities (aOR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.34-0.57), and ≥3 versus no social stressors (aOR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.30-0.58; all p<0.001). Younger patients aged 21-29 years were almost 3 times more likely to receive gender affirming hormone therapy in the VHA than those aged ≥60 (aOR: 2.98; 95% CI: 2.55-3.47; p<0.001). Conclusion TGD individuals who were older, Black, non-Hispanic, and had more comorbidities and documented social stressors were less likely to receive gender-affirming hormone therapy in the VHA. Further understanding of patient preferences in addition to clinician- and site-level determinants that may impact access to gender-affirming hormone therapy for TGD individuals in the VHA is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hill L. Wolfe
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Varsha G. Vimalananda
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Denise H. Wong
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joel I. Reisman
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sowmya R. Rao
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jillian C. Shipherd
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- LGBTQ+ Health Program, Office of Patient Care Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John R. Blosnich
- VA Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Guneet K. Jasuja
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Valentine SE, Gell-Levey IM, Godfrey LB, Livingston NA. The Associations Between Gender Minority Stressors and PTSD Symptom Severity Among Trauma-Exposed Transgender and Gender Diverse Adults. J Trauma Dissociation 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38436077 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2024.2323977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates associations between minority stressors, traumatic stressors, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity in a sample of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) adults. We utilized surveys and clinical interview assessments to assess gender minority stress exposures and responses, and PTSD. Our sample (N = 43) includes adults who identified as a minoritized gender identity (i.e., 39.5% trans woman or woman, 25.6% trans man or man, 23.3% genderqueer or nonbinary, 11.6% other identity). All participants reported at least one traumatic event (i.e., life threat, serious injury, or sexual harm). The most common trauma events reported by the sample were sexual (39.5%) and physical violence (37.2%), with 40.9% of participants anchoring their symptoms to a discrimination-based event. PTSD symptom severity was positively correlated with both distal (r = 0.36, p = .017) and proximal minority stressors (r = 0.40, p < .01). Distal minority stress was a unique predictor of current PTSD symptom severity (b = 0.94, p = .017), however, this association was no longer significant when adjusting for proximal minority stress (b = 0.18, p = 0.046). This study suggests that minority stress, especially proximal minority stress, is associated with higher PTSD symptom severity among TGD adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Valentine
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | | | - Laura B Godfrey
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center, Boston, USA
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, USA
- US Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, USA
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McCann NC, Davenport MJ, Mandavia AD, Stein MD, Livingston NA. HIV Prevalence and HIV Screening History Among a Veterans Association Cohort of People with Opioid and Alcohol Use Disorders. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:403-410. [PMID: 37848765 PMCID: PMC10897116 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08452-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Veterans face high risk for HIV and substance use, and thus could be disproportionately impacted by the HIV and substance use disorder (SUD) "syndemic." HIV prevalence among veterans with SUD is unknown. OBJECTIVE To project HIV prevalence and lifetime HIV screening history among US veterans with alcohol use disorder (AUD), opioid use disorder (OUD), or both. DESIGN We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using national Veterans Health Administration (VHA) data. PARTICIPANTS We selected three cohorts of veterans with SUD: (1) AUD, (2) OUD, and (3) AUD/OUD. Included veterans had ICD codes for AUD/OUD from 2016 to 2022 recorded in VHA electronic medical records, sourced from the VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW). MAIN MEASURES We estimated HIV prevalence by dividing the number of veterans who met two out of three criteria (codes for HIV diagnosis, antiretroviral therapy, or HIV screening/monitoring) by the total number of veterans in each cohort. We also estimated lifetime HIV screening history (as documented in VHA data) by cohort. We reported HIV prevalence and screening history by cohort and across demographic/clinical subgroups. KEY RESULTS Our sample included 669,595 veterans with AUD, 63,787 with OUD, and 57,015 with AUD/OUD. HIV prevalence was highest in the AUD/OUD cohort (3.9%), followed by the OUD (2.1%) and AUD (1.1%) cohorts. Veterans of Black race and Hispanic/Latinx ethnicity, with HCV diagnoses, and aged 50-64 had the highest HIV prevalence in all cohorts. Overall, 12.8%, 29.1%, and 33.1% of the AUD/OUD, OUD, and AUD cohorts did not have history of HIV screening, respectively. CONCLUSIONS HIV prevalence was high in all SUD cohorts, and was highest among veterans with AUD/OUD, with disparities by race/ethnicity and age. A substantial portion of veterans had not received HIV screening in the VHA. Findings highlight room for improvement in HIV prevention and screening services for veterans with SUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole C McCann
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Michael J Davenport
- Data Science Core, Boston CSPCC, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amar D Mandavia
- Medical Informatics, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael D Stein
- Department of Health Law, Policy, and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, USA.
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Livingston NA, Sarpong A, Sistad R, Roth C, Banducci AN, Simpson T, Hyde J, Davenport M, Weisberg R. Gender differences in receipt of telehealth versus in person behavioral therapy, medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and 90-day MOUD retention during the pandemic: A retrospective veteran cohort study. J Subst Use Addict Treat 2024; 156:209188. [PMID: 37866437 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 significantly negatively impacted access to care among patients with opioid use disorder (OUD). The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) enacted policies to expand telehealth and medication for OUD (MOUD) during the public health emergency, which offset risk of treatment disruption. In this study, we evaluated gender differences in utilization of behavioral therapy in person and via telehealth, MOUD utilization, and achieving 90-day MOUD retention pre-post pandemic onset, given known gender differences in treatment utilization between men and women. Secondarily, we examined MOUD receipt and retention as a function of in-person vs. telehealth behavioral therapy received over time. METHODS Using VHA's nationwide electronic health record data, we compared outcomes between men and women veterans, pre- to post-pandemic onset (January 2019-February 2020 vs. March 2020-April 2021). Primary outcomes included receipt of behavioral therapy (in person or telehealth), number of appointments attended, any MOUD, and whether patients achieved 90-day MOUD retention post-induction. RESULTS Veterans with OUD were less likely to receive behavioral therapy post-pandemic onset, which was driven by marked decreases in in-person care; these effects were strongest among women. The odds of receiving MOUD also decreased pre- to post-pandemic onset, particularly among men. Receipt of or achieving 90-day MOUD retention was differentially related to receipt of behavioral therapy via in person vs. telehealth; telehealth was more strongly associated with these utilization indicators post-pandemic onset-an effect that was more pronounced for men. CONCLUSION The likelihood of receiving behavioral therapy and MOUD were lower during COVID-19 and varied by gender, with men being less likely to receive MOUD over time and women being less likely to receive in-person behavioral therapy. Behavioral therapy received via telehealth was generally associated with improved MOUD utilization compared to in-person behavioral therapy, but this was less true for women than for men regarding utilization of or achieving 90-day MOUD retention. In addition to the need for further telehealth expansion for veterans with OUD, more research should explore how to better engage men in MOUD treatment and improve adherence to MOUD among women engaged in behavioral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Alexis Sarpong
- Boston VA Research Institute, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Sistad
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Clara Roth
- Boston VA Research Institute, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Anne N Banducci
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; National Center for PTSD, Women's Health Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Tracy Simpson
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction, Treatment, and Education (CESATE), VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Justeen Hyde
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Bedford, MA, United States of America; General Internal Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Michael Davenport
- Data Science Core, Boston CSPCC, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Risa Weisberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Family Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America; BehaVR, Inc, Elizabethtown, KY, United States of America
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Bryant WT, Livingston NA, McNulty JL, Choate KT, Santa Ana EJ, Ben-Porath YS. Exploring the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI)-3 in a transgender and gender diverse sample. Psychol Assess 2024; 36:1-13. [PMID: 37917494 DOI: 10.1037/pas0001287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Comparisons of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals' mental health functioning with that of cisgender individuals rely almost exclusively on screening measures. The limited research with TGD individuals and omnibus assessment measures has primarily used previous iterations of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventories (MMPIs). This study sought to examine the psychometric functioning of the MMPI-3 with a TGD community sample (n = 97) and compare mean scores across TGD and cisgender subsamples. We expected MMPI-3 substantive scale reliability to be comparable across all samples and subsamples. Individual MMPI-3 scales were expected to demonstrate appropriate convergent and discriminant validity with relevant criterion measures in the TGD sample. Results generally supported MMPI-3 scale score reliability and validity with TGD individuals. Next, three sets of mean score comparisons were conducted across all MMPI-3 substantive scales: (a) TGD individuals not currently in mental health treatment and the MMPI-3 normative sample, (b) TGD individuals not currently in mental health treatment and TGD individuals currently in mental health treatment, and (c) TGD individuals currently in mental health treatment and an outpatient mental health sample. Fewer differences were found between TGD individuals in our sample who were not currently in mental health treatment and the MMPI-3 normative sample compared to previous work. This initial study indicates that MMPI-3 scales largely have appropriate psychometric properties when administered to a TGD sample and that the test may be helpful in identifying mental health needs of TGD individuals. Needs and directions for further research are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- Division of Behavioral Science, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | | | - Kurt T Choate
- Department of Psychology and Counseling, Northeastern State University
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Salomaa AC, Berke D, Harper K, Valentine SE, Sloan CA, Hinds Z, Gyuro L, Herbitter C, Bryant WT, Shipherd JC, Livingston NA. A patient-centered model of mental health care for trauma and minority stress in transgender and gender diverse people: A bottom-up network analysis. Psychol Sex Orientat Gend Divers 2024; 2024:10.1037/sgd0000705. [PMID: 38765785 PMCID: PMC11100088 DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals are disproportionately exposed to traumatic and high-impact minority stressors which can produce an array of transdiagnostic symptoms. Some clinical presentations align well with established evidence-based treatments, but others may require patient-centered modifications or combined approaches to address treatment needs. In this study, we employed a novel, bottom-up approach to derive insights into preferred intervention strategies for a broad range of trauma- and TGD-minority stress-related expressions of clinical distress. Participants (18 TGD individuals, 16 providers) completed a q-sort task by first sorting cards featuring traumatic experiences and/or minority stressors and transdiagnostic psychiatric symptoms into groups based on perceived similarity. Next, participants sorted interventions they believed to be most relevant for addressing these concerns/symptoms. We overlayed networks of stressors and symptoms with intervention networks to evaluate preferred intervention strategies. TGD networks revealed transdiagnostic clustering of intervention strategies and uniquely positioned the expectancy of future harm as a traumatic stressor. Provider networks were more granular in structure; both groups surprisingly emphasized the role of self-defense as intervention. While both networks had high overlap, their discrepancies highlight patient perspectives that practical, material, and structural changes should occur alongside traditional clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danielle Berke
- Hunter College, City University of New York
- The Graduate Center, City University of New York
| | - Kelly Harper
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division
| | - Sarah E. Valentine
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
- Boston Medical Center
| | - Colleen A. Sloan
- VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
| | - Zig Hinds
- VA Boston Healthcare System
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division
| | - Lisa Gyuro
- VA Boston Healthcare System
- National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Sciences Division
| | - Cara Herbitter
- VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
| | - William T. Bryant
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center
- Medical University of South Carolina
| | - Jillian C. Shipherd
- VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
- National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Sciences Division
- LGBTQ+ Health Veterans Health Administration
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division
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9
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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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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10
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Newberger NG, Yeager S, Livingston NA, Enggasser JL, Brief DJ, Litwack S, Helmuth E, Roy M, Rosenbloom D, Keane TM. Life satisfaction following treatment-related reductions in alcohol use and PTSD symptoms: Results from VetChange. Psychol Trauma 2023; 15:1299-1306. [PMID: 35254847 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rates of hazardous alcohol consumption and co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are high among returning combat veterans and may adversely affect satisfaction with life (SWL). Improving life satisfaction represents a potential secondary outcome of web-based interventions for alcohol use and PTSD. Understanding the relationship between intervention targets and SWL may help inform future interventions and provide clarity regarding how improvements are manifesting. We examined returning veterans enrolled in VetChange, an evidence-based web intervention for co-occurring alcohol use and PTSD, to determine changes in SWL over time and as a function of changes in alcohol consumption and PTSD symptoms. METHOD Participants included 222 returning veterans who reported hazardous drinking. Veterans engaged in a nationwide implementation of VetChange and completed measures of average weekly drinks (AWD), PTSD symptoms, and SWL at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months. We investigated the effects of changes in PTSD and AWD between baseline and 1 month on SWL over 6 months using linear mixed-effects modeling. RESULTS Across all veterans, SWL increased by 19% over 6 months. AWD and PTSD decreased between baseline and 1 month, but only change in PTSD predicted changes in SWL over the 6-month interval. CONCLUSIONS Reductions in PTSD symptoms within the first month of intervention use, and not reductions in drinking, predicted increased SWL over 6 months. SWL is an important marker for recovery and related quality of life, and an important assessment and intervention target of web-based interventions. Interventions may also target SWL, as improvements in SWL promote future recovery and sustained improvement. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam G Newberger
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | - Samantha Yeager
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | | | | | - Deborah J Brief
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | - Scott Litwack
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | | | - Monica Roy
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | | | - Terence M Keane
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System
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11
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Sistad RE, Livingston NA, Crowe ML, Newberger N, Spitzer E, Brief D, Litwack S, Helmuth E, Roy M, Solhan M, Rosenbloom D, Keane TM. Network analysis of reasons for and against changing alcohol use among veterans engaged in a web-based intervention for hazardous drinking and PTSD symptoms. Addict Behav 2023; 143:107689. [PMID: 36924646 PMCID: PMC10485876 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Better understanding of reasons for and against change may be an effective strategy for supporting drinking reduction or abstinence among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. The current study explored connections between reasons for and against changing hazardous alcohol use, as well as the relative importance of a given reason. Data from 366 veterans (86% male, 77% White) between the ages of 21 and 56 (M = 31.8, SD = 7.3) were obtained from a nationwide web-based alcohol and posttraumatic stress disorder randomized clinical trial. Participant-generated reasons for and against change were used to estimate two separate network models. The network of motives for changing alcohol use was generally well connected with predominately positive associations. Veterans reporting motivation to change alcohol use to improve functioning, enhance self-worth, and decrease alcohol-related consequences tended to have higher than average motivation to reduce or abstain from alcohol use. Alternatively, the network structure of motives against changing alcohol use demonstrated a nearly equal number of positive and negative associations. Whereas reasons to cope and sleep may imply higher than average motivation to continue drinking the same, veterans reporting reasons to reduce anxiety and have fun tended to have lower than average motivation to continue drinking. The current study may inform content modifications to self-help tools to more quickly and effectively target users' motivations from the beginning. Capitalizing on intervention users' motivations early may promote sustained engagement or improve therapeutic impact among those who only use the intervention for a short period of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Sistad
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, United States; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, United States.
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, United States; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Michael L Crowe
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, United States; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Noam Newberger
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Spitzer
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, Boston, MA, United States; Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Deborah Brief
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, United States
| | - Scott Litwack
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, United States
| | - Eric Helmuth
- Educational Development Center, Waltham, MA, United States
| | - Monica Roy
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, United States
| | - Marika Solhan
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, United States; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Boston Vet Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David Rosenbloom
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Terence M Keane
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, United States; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
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12
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Salomaa AC, Livingston NA, Bryant WT, Herbitter C, Harper K, Sloan CA, Hinds Z, Gyuro L, Valentine SE, Shipherd JC. A bottom-up approach to developing a unified trauma-minority stress model for transgender and gender diverse people. Psychol Trauma 2023; 15:618-627. [PMID: 36201832 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people are at heightened risk of both Criterion A trauma exposure and other bias-related minority stressors (e.g., discrimination, rejection). In the absence of a unified trauma-minority stress theory, it remains unclear how to best conceptualize psychopathology for people who experience both trauma and minority stress. METHOD Using a participant-driven q-sort methodology and network analytic approach, we analyzed card sort data from 18 TGD people and 16 providers with expertise in TGD care to derive thematic networks of trauma and minority stress experiences, as they connected to transdiagnostic symptoms (e.g., hyperarousal, avoidance). RESULTS The TGD participants' resulting network illustrates conceptualizations of identity- and nonidentity-based Criterion A traumas as similar and only related to psychiatric symptoms via the shared connection through other minority stressors. The provider network was more granular, although the general pattern was consistent with TGD participants, demonstrating similar perceptions of how these experiences are associated. CONCLUSIONS Evidence of inextricable links between trauma and psychiatric symptoms through the conduit of minority stressors lays the groundwork for novel, integrated models of trauma, minority stress, and their transdiagnostic symptom sequelae. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Kelly Harper
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System
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13
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Chang CJ, Fischer IC, Depp CA, Norman SB, Livingston NA, Pietrzak RH. A disproportionate burden: Prevalence of trauma and mental health difficulties among sexual minority versus heterosexual U.S. military veterans. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 161:477-482. [PMID: 37086703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023]
Abstract
This study examined sociodemographic, military, and trauma characteristics, and mental health concerns that differ by sexual orientation in a nationally representative sample of U.S. military veterans. Data were analyzed from 4069 veterans who participated in the National Health and Resilience Veterans Study (NHRVS). Compared with veterans who self-reported as heterosexual (n = 3,491, 94.7%), sexual minority veterans (n = 161, 5.3%) were more likely to be younger, women, Hispanic, unmarried/partnered, have lower household income, and to have enlisted in the military, and served for 4-9 years (relative to 3 or less or 10 or more). After adjusting for demographic variables, sexual minority veterans remained more likely to report childhood sexual abuse (odds ratio [OR] = 2.82), military sexual trauma (OR = 2.29), adverse childhood experiences (Cohen's d = 0.11), current and lifetime drug use disorder (ORs = 3.66 and 2.41, respectively), current alcohol use disorder (OR = 1.62), current and lifetime posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; ORs = 2.03 and 1.55, respectively), non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI; OR = 3.19), and future suicide intent (OR = 2.65). Among sexual minority veterans, more years of military service was associated with greater odds of lifetime PTSD, and lower annual household income with greater odds of lifetime drug use disorder and NSSI. Consistent with research in non-veterans, results suggest that sexual minority veterans experience greater trauma and mental health burden relative to their heterosexual peers. They further underscore the importance of interventions that prevent and mitigate adverse mental health outcomes in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy J Chang
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Ian C Fischer
- National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Colin A Depp
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sonya B Norman
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA; National Center for PTSD, White River Junction, VT, USA
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- National Center for PTSD, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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14
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Livingston NA, Gatsby E, Shipherd JC, Lynch KE. Causes of alcohol-attributable death and associated years of potential life lost among LGB and non-LGB veteran men and women in Veterans Health Administration. Addict Behav 2023; 139:107587. [PMID: 36571942 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use is a significant concern nationally and research now highlights higher rates of alcohol attributable death (AAD) and years of potential life lost (YPLL) among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) veterans compared to non-LGB veterans. In this study, we examined specific causes of AAD and associated YPLL between LGB and non-LGB veteran men and women to highlight needed outreach, prevention, and treatment strategies. METHODS Using data from the nationwide Veterans Health Administration electronic health record and National Death Index from 2014 to 2018, we examined the top ten ranked causes of AAD among LGB (n = 102,085) and non-LGB veteran (n = 5,300,521) men and women, as well as associated YPLL per AAD. RESULTS We observed higher rates of AAD among men than women, but higher rates among LGB veterans relative to their same-sex non-LGB counterparts. We noted greater YPLL per AAD among LGB men and all women compared to non-LGB men, even when of similar or same rank in cause of death. Acute-cause AAD death (e.g., alcohol-related suicide, poisonings) was ranked higher among LGB men and all women. YPLL was greater for both acute- and chronic-cause AAD (e.g., liver disease) among LGB men and all women compared to non-LGB men. CONCLUSIONS Causes of AAD differ between LGB and non-LGB men and women. The differences observed highlight disparities in acute- and chronic-cause AAD between groups help explain the higher number of YPLL per AAD that disfavor LGB men and women veterans, and essential next steps in primary and secondary prevention of hazardous drinking and mortality risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Elise Gatsby
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Jillian C Shipherd
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; LGBTQ+ Health Program, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, United States; Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kristine E Lynch
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
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15
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Sistad RE, Enggasser J, Livingston NA, Brief D. Comparing substance use treatment initiation and retention between telehealth delivered during COVID-19 and in-person treatment pre-COVID-19. Am J Addict 2023; 32:301-308. [PMID: 36645267 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES A large portion of veterans referred to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment do not attend their first appointment or leave treatment prematurely. Telehealth options may increase access to care and treatment attendance. This study compared treatment initiation and retention between in-person treatment pre-COVID-19 and telehealth treatment during COVID-19 in a VA hospital outpatient alcohol and drug treatment clinic. METHODS Electronic health record data were collected on 373 veterans out of 481 referrals. Mixed logistic and negative binomial regression models were used for estimating the effect of treatment modality on treatment initiation and retention, respectively. RESULTS The odds of initiating treatment were 2.6 times greater when referred to a telehealth appointment during COVID-19 compared to an in-person appointment pre-COVID-19. Months retained in treatment postinitiation was similar between treatment modalities. Each month in treatment corresponded to a subsequently lower rate of treatment session attendance and by the fourth month, the average number of sessions attended was significantly lower for those receiving in-person treatment compared to those receiving telehealth treatment. CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE The odds of initiating SUD treatment and rate of treatment attendance over time was greater for services delivered via telehealth during COVID-19 compared to in-person pre-COVID-19. Extending telehealth services as an option for individual and group SUD treatment may promote treatment initiation and potentially higher rate of attendance over time. This study provides additional evidence for the feasibility and utility of rapidly expanding telehealth for veterans seeking outpatient substance use treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Sistad
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Massachusetts, Boston, USA
| | - Justin Enggasser
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Massachusetts, Boston, USA.,Pear Therapeutics, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Massachusetts, Boston, USA.,Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, Massachusetts, Boston, USA
| | - Deborah Brief
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Massachusetts, Boston, USA
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16
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Livingston NA, Davenport M, Head M, Henke R, LeBeau LS, Gibson TB, Banducci AN, Sarpong A, Jayanthi S, Roth C, Camacho-Cook J, Meng F, Hyde J, Mulvaney-Day N, White M, Chen DC, Stein MD, Weisberg R. The impact of COVID-19 and rapid policy exemptions expanding on access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD): A nationwide Veterans Health Administration cohort study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 241:109678. [PMID: 36368167 PMCID: PMC9624112 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In March 2020, Veterans Health Administration (VHA) enacted policies to expand treatment for Veterans with opioid use disorder (OUD) during COVID-19. In this study, we evaluate whether COVID-19 and subsequent OUD treatment policies impacted receipt of therapy/counseling and medication for OUD (MOUD). METHODS Using VHA's nationwide electronic health record data, we compared outcomes between a comparison cohort derived using data from prior to COVID-19 (October 2017-December 2019) and a pandemic-exposed cohort (January 2019-March 2021). Primary outcomes included receipt of therapy/counseling or any MOUD (any/none); secondary outcomes included the number of therapy/counseling sessions attended, and the average percentage of days covered (PDC) by, and months prescribed, each MOUD in a year. RESULTS Veterans were less likely to receive therapy/counseling over time, especially post-pandemic onset, and despite substantial increases in teletherapy. The likelihood of receiving buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone was reduced post-pandemic onset. PDC on MOUD generally decreased over time, especially methadone PDC post-pandemic onset, whereas buprenorphine PDC was less impacted during COVID-19. The number of months prescribed methadone and buprenorphine represented relative improvements compared to prior years. We observed important disparities across Veteran demographics. CONCLUSION Receipt of treatment was negatively impacted during the pandemic. However, there was some evidence that coverage on methadone and buprenorphine may have improved among some veterans who received them. These medication effects are consistent with expected COVID-19 treatment disruptions, while improvements regarding access to therapy/counseling via telehealth, as well as coverage on MOUD during the pandemic, are consistent with the aims of MOUD policy exemptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,US Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA,Correspondence to: National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02130, USA
| | - Michael Davenport
- Data Science Core, Boston CSPCC, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Anne N. Banducci
- US Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA,National Center for PTSD, Women’s Health Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Clara Roth
- Boston VA Research Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Frank Meng
- Data Science Core, Boston CSPCC, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Justeen Hyde
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Bedford, MA, USA,General Internal Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Norah Mulvaney-Day
- Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Daniel C. Chen
- Data Science Core, Boston CSPCC, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,General Internal Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael D. Stein
- Health Law, Policy & Management, Boston University School of Public Health, MA, USA
| | - Risa Weisberg
- US Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA,Department of Family Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA,BehaVR, Inc, Elizabethtown, KY, USA
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17
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Simpson T, Sistad R, Brooks JT, Newberger NG, Livingston NA. Seeking care where they can: A systematic review of global trends in online alcohol treatment utilization among non-veteran and veteran women. Drug Alcohol Depend Rep 2022; 5:100116. [PMID: 36844155 PMCID: PMC9948922 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2022.100116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Findings from a person-level meta-analysis of online alcohol intervention trials suggest that women disproportionately seek out such interventions (Riper et al., 2018). Although women may be a "hidden population" that is particularly drawn to online alcohol interventions, trial design features may explain women's apparent over-representation in these trials. Methods This systematic review examined associations between gender-tailored recruitment/inclusion criteria and proportions of women enrolled in online alcohol intervention trials, evaluated whether community samples have greater proportions of women than clinical samples, and compared country-specific average proportions of women in trials to country-specific proportions of women with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Results Forty-four trials met inclusion/exclusion criteria, 34 community samples and 10 drawn from clinical settings; 4 studies included U.S. veterans and were examined separately. The average proportion of community-recruited women across the studies was 51.20% and the average proportion of clinically-recruited women was 35.81%, a difference that was statistically significant. Across the countries with relevant trials, the expected proportion of those with AUD who are women is 27.1% (World Population Review, 2022). Only 2 studies used targeted recruitment for women so no between-group tests were conducted. There was not a statistically significant difference in the proportion of women across trials that did and did not use gender-tailored alcohol inclusion criteria. Conclusions Results from this systematic review suggest that study design factors do not account for the marked over-representation of women in online alcohol interventions, indicating that women are indeed a "hidden population" whose needs should be understood and accommodated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Simpson
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction Treatment & Education, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA,University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA,Corresponding author at: 1660 S. Columbian Way (S-116-CESATE), Seattle, WA 98108, USA.
| | - Rebecca Sistad
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jack T. Brooks
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Noam G. Newberger
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA,National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
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18
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Lynch KE, Livingston NA, Gatsby E, Shipherd JC, DuVall SL, Williams EC. Alcohol-attributable deaths and years of potential life lost due to alcohol among veterans: Overall and between persons with minoritized and non-minoritized sexual orientations. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 237:109534. [PMID: 35717789 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unhealthy alcohol use is disproportionally experienced by individuals with minoritized sexual orientations. Unlike the general US population, for whom the burden of alcohol as it relates to mortality is consistently monitored across time with national survey data, the impact of unhealthy alcohol use among veterans with minoritized sexual orientations, for whom addressing substance use is a national priority, is largely unknown. METHODS Using Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test Consumption data from the Department of Veterans Affairs electronic health record and underlying cause of death from National Death Index from 2014 to 2018 we quantified alcohol consumption and related mortality among veterans with (n = 102,085) and without minoritized sexual orientations (n = 5300,521). Age adjusted rates of alcohol attributed deaths (AAD) per 100,000 persons and years of potential life lost (YPLL) were estimated by sexual orientation, sex, and sexual orientation stratified by sex. RESULTS Alcohol attributable deaths (n = 21,861) were higher among veterans with minoritized sexual orientations than veterans without after adjustment for age (486.5 deaths/100,000 versus 309.7 deaths/100,000, respectively). Veterans with minoritized sexual orientations also experienced more YPLL (13,772.8 years/100,000 versus 7618.9 years/100,000). Years of potential life lost per AAD was higher in women (33.2 years) than men (18.7 years). CONCLUSIONS Alcohol consumption results in substantial disability and death among veterans, particularly veterans with minoritized sexual orientations. Findings suggest need for increased alcohol-related services for all VA patients, and potential targeted approaches to for veterans with minoritized sexual orientations and women to offset risk for, and years of potential life lost from, alcohol attributable death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine E Lynch
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, 500 Foothill Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84148, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 720 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Elise Gatsby
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, 500 Foothill Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84148, USA
| | - Jillian C Shipherd
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 720 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA; LGBTQ+ Health Program, Veterans Health Administration, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420, USA
| | - Scott L DuVall
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, 500 Foothill Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84148, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Emily C Williams
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, 3980 15th Avenue NW, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Health Services Research & Development, Denver-Seattle Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound 1660 S Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108, USA
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19
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Livingston NA, Farmer SL, Mahoney CT, Marx BP, Keane TM. The role of PTSD symptom clusters and criterion in predicting future high-risk drug and alcohol use among returning veteran men and women. Psychol Serv 2022; 19:386-395. [PMID: 33844563 PMCID: PMC9048192 DOI: 10.1037/ser0000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) remains exceptionally high among returning veterans, with numerous studies linking PTSD, but not specific PTSD symptoms, to future SUD risk. Further explication of PTSD symptom effects on future SUD risk will likely promote intervention development and refinement while offsetting SUD risk. Accordingly, In this study we explored the prospective associations between PTSD symptom clusters, symptoms, and future SUD risk and use of specific drug classes. Returning veterans (N = 1,295; Mage = 42.3, SD = 9.89; 51% female; 66.8% White) completed structured diagnostic interviews to assess PTSD symptoms and self-report measures of substance use 14-36 months later (M = 24.59, SD = 2.97). Hyperarousal and reckless/self-destructive symptoms specifically predicted future high-risk drug use and binge drinking behavior, and avoidance of internal stimuli (i.e., of trauma memories, thoughts, and feelings) differentiated individuals classified as high-risk for alcohol use based on their AUDIT total score. Further, negative alterations in cognition and mood predicted future opioid (i.e., nightmares) and stimulant use (i.e., flashbacks), whereas concentration difficulties were inversely associated with future binge drinking. This longitudinal study identified prospective and enduring associations between specific PTSD symptom clusters, symptoms, and future high-risk substance use patterns among returning veterans. Accordingly, careful assessment of specific PTSD criteria and differential motivations for substance use is warranted, along with tailored interventions to offset risk for opioid, stimulant, and alcohol use among returning veterans. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine,Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | - Stacey L. Farmer
- Department of Veteran Affairs, Albany Stratton VA Medical Center
| | | | - Brian P. Marx
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine,Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | - Terence M. Keane
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine,Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System
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20
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Newberger NG, Hinds Z, Mahoney CT, Bryant WT, Herbitter C, Livingston NA. Real-time associations between discrimination, cannabis use, and mood among sexual and gender minority individuals. Psychol Addict Behav 2022; 36:491-498. [PMID: 35467899 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals experience high rates of discrimination, which is associated with increased cannabis use. Studies have also linked daily SGM discrimination to event-based mood states, but none have examined the degree to which cannabis buffers or potentially exacerbates mood in response to discrimination in real time. METHOD Fifty SGM individuals participated in a 2-week ecological momentary assessment study. Participants completed a baseline assessment and then received six daily prompts assessing SGM discrimination, cannabis use, and current mood. We investigated the immediate associations between SGM discrimination and mood, and how cannabis use differentially moderated these associations. RESULTS SGM discrimination was associated with increased negative mood and decreased positive mood. Among those who experienced discrimination, individuals who used cannabis reported feeling less anxious and depressed, and happier and more relaxed, in the 2 hr following an SGM discrimination experience compared to those that did not use cannabis. CONCLUSIONS These findings uncover some of the acute within-day effects of both daily SGM discrimination and cannabis use on mood. These findings build on the current understanding of minority stress, in real time, and suggest avenues for prevention, and intervention efforts to offset risk for psychological distress and cannabis use among SGM individuals who experience minority stress. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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21
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Livingston NA, Farmer SL, Mahoney CT, Marx BP, Keane TM. Longitudinal course of mental health symptoms among veterans with and without cannabis use disorder. Psychol Addict Behav 2022; 36:131-143. [PMID: 34351175 PMCID: PMC9048195 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is the most common non-alcohol related substance use disorder (SUD) in the United States and is especially prevalent among returning veterans. The long-term mental health correlates of CUD remain unknown, which is significant given the rise in legalization and also recreational and medicinal cannabis use nationally. METHOD Using a gender-balanced, national sample of 1,649 veterans (n = 115 with CUD; 75.2% White; M age = 37.49, SD = 9.88), we used latent growth curve modeling to examine posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity, depressive symptoms, generalized anxiety, alcohol use, and psychosocial functioning between veterans with versus without a prior diagnosis of CUD over five time points, spanning an average of 7 years. RESULTS Returning veterans with CUD compared to those without reported higher alcohol use, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptom severity, and worse psychosocial functioning at baseline. We observed nonlinear change across each outcome. We also found that CUD moderated change in alcohol use (quadratic: b = -.129, p < .001) and PTSD symptoms (quadratic: b = -.280, p = .019), such that individuals with CUD evidenced decelerated change and worse outcomes relative to veterans without a previously documented CUD diagnosis. Trajectories of depression, anxiety, and psychosocial functioning were similar across individuals with versus without CUD. CONCLUSIONS In the first long-term and longitudinal evaluation of mental health and alcohol use course among returning veterans, CUD was associated with worse and more persistent alcohol use and PTSD symptom severity over time. These data have implications for clinical assessment, case conceptualization, and treatment of veterans and may inform efforts to offset risk for hazardous drinking and PTSD following a diagnosis of CUD. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, United States,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine,U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Stacey L. Farmer
- Department of Veteran Affairs, Albany Stratton VA Medical Center, Albany, New York, United States
| | | | - Brian P. Marx
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, United States,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine,U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Terence M. Keane
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, United States,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine,U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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22
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Livingston NA, Lynch KE, Hinds Z, Gatsby E, DuVall SL, Shipherd JC. Identifying Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Disparity Among Transgender Veterans Using Nationwide Veterans Health Administration Electronic Health Record Data. LGBT Health 2022; 9:94-102. [PMID: 34981963 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2021.0246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychiatric disorders is high among military veterans and even higher among transgender veterans. Prior prevalence estimates have become outdated, and novel methods of estimation have since been developed but not used to estimate PTSD prevalence among transgender veterans. This study provides updated estimates of PTSD prevalence among transgender and cisgender veterans. Methods: We examined Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical record data from October 1, 1999 to April 1, 2021 for 9995 transgender veterans and 29,985 cisgender veteran comparisons (1:3). We matched on age group at first VHA health care visit, sex assigned at birth, and year of first VHA visit. We employed both probabilistic and rule-based algorithms to estimate the prevalence of PTSD for transgender and cisgender veterans. Results: The prevalence of PTSD was 1.5-1.8 times higher among transgender veterans. Descriptive data suggest that the prevalence of depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, alcohol and non-alcohol substance use disorders, current/former smoking status, and military sexual trauma was also elevated among transgender veterans. Conclusion: The PTSD and overall psychiatric burden observed among transgender veterans was significantly higher than that of their cisgender peers, especially among recent users of VHA care. These PTSD findings are consistent with prior literature and minority stress theory, and they were robust across probabilistic and two rule-based methods employed in this study. As such, enhanced and careful screening, outreach, and evidence-based practices are recommended to help reduce this disparity among transgender veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kristine E Lynch
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Zig Hinds
- Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elise Gatsby
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Scott L DuVall
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jillian C Shipherd
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,LGBTQ+ Health Program, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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23
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Rubin A, Livingston NA, Brady J, Hocking E, Bickmore T, Sawdy M, Kressin N, Saitz R, Simon S. Computerized Relational Agent to Deliver Alcohol Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment in Primary Care: a Randomized Clinical Trial. J Gen Intern Med 2022; 37:70-77. [PMID: 34145518 PMCID: PMC8212899 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-021-06945-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol screening and brief intervention have demonstrated efficacy but limited effectiveness and implementation in real-world primary care settings. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of a computerized Relational Agent programmed to provide alcohol screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment. We hypothesized that participants in the experimental condition would report greater reductions in their drinking and higher rates of brief intervention and referrals to specialty care compared to those in treatment as usual (TAU). DESIGN This was a Hybrid I implementation design and stratified RCT. Participants were randomized to TAU or Relational Agent + TAU and assessed at baseline and 3-month follow-up. PARTICIPANTS A total of 178 veteran participants were recruited by referral from primary care staff after a positive alcohol screen, or via letter sent do patients screening positive during recent visit. INTERVENTION(S) TAU involved yearly reminders to screen alcohol use and provide brief intervention and treatment referrals, as needed. The Relational Agent added an automated brief intervention, a 1-month follow-up Relational Agent visit, and referral to treatment if needed. MAIN MEASURES We measured average drinks per day, drinking days per week, number of brief interventions, and number of referrals over 3 months. KEY RESULTS Participants decreased their drinking in both study conditions, with no significant between-group differences on primary alcohol measures. However, Relational Agent + TAU participants evidenced greater improvements regarding negative alcohol-related consequences over 3 months, and were significantly more likely to receive a brief intervention and referral to specialty care. CONCLUSIONS The Relational Agent successfully provided brief intervention and referred many more patients to specialty care and was able to intervene with patients with less severe drinking without increasing primary care burden. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov , NCT02030288, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Rubin
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
- Behavioral Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Julianne Brady
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
| | - Elise Hocking
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Molly Sawdy
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
| | - Nancy Kressin
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard Saitz
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Steven Simon
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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24
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Hinds Z, Herbitter C, Bryant WT, Newberger NG, Livingston NA. Hazardous Substance Use Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adults: A Deeper Look into Distal Minority Stressors. Psychol Sex Orientat Gend Divers 2022; 10:10.1037/sgd0000583. [PMID: 37885566 PMCID: PMC10601395 DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Discrimination and victimization drive health disparities among sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals, yet little is known about the relative impacts of specific experience types on hazardous substance use. Using data from 704 SGM adults, we examined SGM-related discrimination vs. victimization and specific experiences as predictors of hazardous substance use. SGM-related victimization, not discrimination, predicted hazardous substance use, and SGM-related sexual assault and harassment predicted hazardous alcohol use, although only sexual assault predicted hazardous drug use. These findings implicate lifetime SGM-related victimization, and SGM-related sexual assault and harassment specifically, as key correlates of recent hazardous substance use among SGM adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zig Hinds
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cara Herbitter
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William T. Bryant
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Noam G. Newberger
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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25
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Bryant WT, Livingston NA, McNulty JL, Choate KT, Brummel BJ. Examining Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) scale scores in a transgender and gender diverse sample. Psychol Assess 2021; 33:1239-1246. [PMID: 34968141 DOI: 10.1037/pas0001087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals are at increased risk of various forms of psychopathology. Little research has been conducted with broadband measures of psychopathology and TGD individuals. The present study sought to examine how TGD individuals scored on Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) scales. This included MMPI-2-RF profiles from 85 TGD individuals; 37 were in mental health treatment and 48 of which were not. This study involved three sets of pairwise comparisons on MMPI-2-RF substantive scales via t-tests: (a) TGD individuals not in treatment versus the MMPI-2-RF normative sample, (v) TGD individuals not in treatment versus TGD individuals in treatment, and (c) TGD individuals in treatment versus a large outpatient clinical sample. Compared to the MMPI-2-RF normative sample, TGD individuals not in treatment scored significantly higher on 31 of the MMPI-2-RF substantive scales. Compared to those TGD individuals not in treatment, those in treatment had significantly higher scores on several MMPI-2-RF scales, primarily those of internalizing psychopathology. In the final comparison between TGD individuals in treatment and an outpatient clinical sample, the TGD individuals had some significantly higher and significantly lower scores on MMPI-2-RF substantive scales. Implications regarding minority stress and the current findings are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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26
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Shipherd JC, Lynch K, Gatsby E, Hinds Z, DuVall SL, Livingston NA. Estimating prevalence of PTSD among veterans with minoritized sexual orientations using electronic health record data. J Consult Clin Psychol 2021; 89:856-868. [PMID: 34807660 DOI: 10.1037/ccp0000691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Questionnaire studies show people with minoritized sexual orientations (MSOs) face increased risk for conditions including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study replicated Harrington et al.'s (2019) electronic health record probabilistic algorithm to evaluate lifetime PTSD prevalence in Veterans Health Administration (VHA)-using veterans. Method: In 115,853 MSO veterans and a 1:3 matched (on sex assigned at birth, and age at and year of first VHA visit) sample of non-MSO veterans. Each veteran was given a probability of "likely PTSD" (0.0-1.0) and thresholds (e.g., 0.7) applied to minimize false positive classifications. Results: Veterans with MSO were 2.35 times, CI [2.33, 2.38], more likely to have "likely PTSD" than veterans with non-MSO. The prevalence of "likely PTSD" using the rule-based International Classification of Diseases (ICD) approach was 40.8% among the MSO group compared to 22.0% among the non-MSO group after excluding those with bipolar or schizophrenia diagnoses and those with limited VHA engagement. Without those exclusions, prevalence was slightly higher in both groups (46.1% vs. 24.3%, respectively; prevalence ratio: 1.90). Despite increased prevalence of exposure to military sexual trauma (MST; MSO = 20.7%; non-MSO = 8.3%) and double "likely PTSD" among MSO veterans, they were less likely to have a service-connected PTSD disability than their matched non-MSO (MSO = 78.1%; non-MSO = 87.6%) comparators. Conclusions: VHA-using veterans with MSO were twice as likely to have "likely PTSD" and exposure to MST than veterans with non-MSO. Veterans with MSO were less likely to be service connected for PTSD than non-MSO counterparts. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian C Shipherd
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) Health Program, Veterans Health Administration
| | - Kristine Lynch
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System
| | - Elise Gatsby
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System
| | - Zig Hinds
- Behavioral Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System
| | - Scott L DuVall
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, VA Salt Lake City Health Care System
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27
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Schreiner AM, Livingston NA, Heilman M, Lynch T, Vittorio L, Brief DJ, Rubin A, Enggasser JL, Roy M, Solhan M, Helmuth E, Rosenbloom D, Keane TM. Understanding motives for and against hazardous drinking and change among returning veterans. Psychol Serv 2021; 18:523-532. [PMID: 32378932 PMCID: PMC9036940 DOI: 10.1037/ser0000423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of hazardous drinking is elevated among returning veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan wars, particularly among returning veterans and those with co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Understanding the reasons for drinking as well as motivations for change can tremendously improve intervention efforts. Unfortunately, little is currently known regarding the motivations that might facilitate or hinder change among returning veterans. In the current study, we examined returning veterans' reasons to change or not change drinking through analysis of responses to an open-ended decisional balance exercise. We included 366 returning veterans selected from a larger sample of returning veterans enrolled in a web-based randomized-controlled trial of an online intervention for alcohol use and PTSD. We used qualitative content analysis to systematically classify responses into categories through identification of common themes. Top reasons to change/reduce drinking included reducing negative physical effects, improve finances, and expected social/interpersonal benefits of reduction or abstaining. Top reasons to continue drinking/not change included facilitation of social interaction, promote sleep, and reduce tension. The current study adds to our phenomenological understanding of motivations for and against changing drinking among returning veterans. Whereas many motives were consistent with those of nonveteran samples, others appear to distinguish, and are uniquely salient among, returning veterans (e.g., to manage sleep and PTSD symptoms). These results provide insight into key assessment and intervention points regarding hazardous drinking among returning veterans. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy M. Schreiner
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, New York, New York
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Meagan Heilman
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and University of Alabama
| | - Toby Lynch
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, and VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lisa Vittorio
- Ohio State University and National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Deborah J. Brief
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Amy Rubin
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Justin L. Enggasser
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Monica Roy
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Marika Solhan
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Eric Helmuth
- Education Development Center, Boston, Massachusetts, and VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Terence M. Keane
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, and Boston University School of Medicine
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28
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Livingston NA, Lee DJ, Mahoney CT, Farmer SL, Cole T, Marx BP, Keane TM. Longitudinal assessment of PTSD and illicit drug use among male and female OEF-OIF veterans. Addict Behav 2021; 118:106870. [PMID: 33667852 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.106870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use share both directional ("self-medication") and mutually-reinforcing associations over time. Research on gender differences regarding the co-occurrence of PTSD and substance use over time remains limited and largely focused on alcohol use; less is known regarding the co-occurrence of PTSD and illicit drug use, especially among veteran men vs. women. As the proportion of women in the military expands, we believe a greater focus on gender differences is warranted. METHOD We conducted a cross-lagged panel analysis of PTSD symptoms and drug use problems using two waves of data from a large, nationwide longitudinal registry of post-9/11 veterans. Participants included 608 men and 635 women (N = 1243; Mage = 42.3; 75.2% White) who completed self-report PTSD and drug use problem questionnaires at T1 and again at T2 15-37 months later. RESULTS Veteran men reported more severe drug use and related problems overall, yet the cross-sectional correlation between PTSD and drug use problems was strongest among drug using veteran women. In our cross-lagged models, we found that PTSD symptoms predicted future drug use problems among veteran men, whereas drug use problems predicted future PTSD symptom severity among women. CONCLUSIONS These results support the self-medication pathway among veteran men but not women, for whom drug use problems might prolong or exacerbate PTSD symptom severity over time. These results are consistent with some emerging evidence but also provide novel insight into functional associations governing the longitudinal course of PTSD and drug use problems for men vs. women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, United States.
| | - Daniel J Lee
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Colin T Mahoney
- Western New England University, Springfield, MA, United States
| | - Stacey L Farmer
- Department of Veteran Affairs, Albany Stratton VA Medical Center, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Travis Cole
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Brian P Marx
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Terence M Keane
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, United States
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29
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Wong DH, Vimalananda VG, Reisman JI, Rao SR, Shipherd JC, Wolfe HL, Blosnich JR, Livingston NA, Jasuja GK. Patient Characteristics Associated With the Receipt of Hormone Therapy Among Transgender Patients in the Veterans Health Administration. J Endocr Soc 2021. [PMCID: PMC8265843 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab048.1615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Many transgender patients experience gender dysphoria as a result of an incongruence between their gender identity and sex assigned at birth. Gender-affirming hormone therapy improves the quality of life for transgender patients seeking to increase alignment of their secondary sex characteristics and gender identity. However, little is known about the patient factors that are associated with receipt of this therapy which is critical to identifying areas for improvement in care for transgender patients. Objective: To evaluate patient characteristics associated with transgender patients’ receipt of hormone therapy from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). Methods: Inpatient and outpatient data were reviewed for transgender patients, identified through ICD-9/ICD-10 diagnosis codes for gender identity disorder (GID), receiving VHA health care from January 2006 to December 2018. We evaluated receipt of hormone therapy (testosterone or estrogen +/- spironolactone) from the VHA, socio-demographics, comorbidities, social stressors, military sexual trauma, and documented suicide attempts. Adjusted Odds Ratios (aOR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were obtained from a multivariable logistic regression model used to ascertain the relationship between patient characteristics and hormone therapy. Results: Of 9,406 patients with documented GID, 5,487 (58.3%) received hormone therapy from the VHA. Compared to patients not receiving hormone therapy, a higher proportion of patients receiving hormone therapy were younger (21-29 years: 18.1% vs. 11.6%; 30-39 years: 20.0% vs. 14.6%; 40-49 years: 16.2% vs. 13.6%), had documentation of a positive military sexual trauma screening (22.2% vs. 16.2%; p<0.0001), and a suicide attempt (11.4% vs. 9.9%; p=0.0067). There were significant associations between receipt of hormone therapy and: 1) younger age (aOR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.29-1.36; p<0.0001); 2) Black non-Hispanic patients (aOR: 0.58; 95% CI: 050-0.68; p<0.0001); 3) increasing number of comorbidities (aOR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.84-0.88; p<0.0001); and 4) increasing number of social stressors (aOR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.83-0.90; p<0.0001). Conclusions: Age, race/ethnicity, comorbidities, and social stressors among other factors are associated with receipt of hormone therapy among transgender patients in the VHA. Subsequent efforts should focus on understanding clinician- and site-level determinants to facilitate the design of effective quality improvement measures that optimize gender affirming hormone therapy through VHA for transgender patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise H Wong
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Sowmya R Rao
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Wolfe HL, Reisman JI, Yoon SS, Blosnich JR, Shipherd JC, Vimalananda VG, Rao SR, Hashemi L, Berlowitz D, Goodman M, Livingston NA, Reece SG, Jasuja GK. Validating Data-driven Methods to Identify Transgender Individuals in the Veterans Affairs. Am J Epidemiol 2021; 190:1928-1934. [PMID: 33843970 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwab102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We sought to operationalize and validate data-driven approaches to identify transgender individuals in the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) health care system through a retrospective analysis using VA administrative data from 2006 to 2018. Besides gender identity disorder (GID) diagnoses, a combination of non-GID data elements were used to identify potential transgender veterans, including: 1) endocrine disorder, unspecified or not otherwise specified codes, 2) receipt of sex hormones not associated with the sex documented in the veteran's records (gender-affirming hormone therapy), and 3) change in the administratively recorded sex. Both GID and non-GID data elements were applied to a sample of 13,233,529 veterans utilizing the VA healthcare system between January 2006 and December 2018. We identified 10,769 potential transgender veterans. Based on a high positive predictive value of GID (83%, 95% Confidence Interval (CI)=77-89%) versus non-GID-coded veterans (2%, 95% CI=1-11%) from chart review validation, the final analytical sample comprised of only veterans with a GID diagnosis code (n=9,608). In the absence of self-identified gender identity, findings suggest that relying entirely on GID diagnosis codes are the most reliable approach to identify transgender individuals in the VA.
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Livingston NA, Simpson T, Lehavot K, Ameral V, Brief DJ, Enggasser J, Litwack S, Helmuth E, Roy M, Rosenbloom D, Keane TM. Differential alcohol treatment response by gender following use of VetChange. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 221:108552. [PMID: 33556659 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Proportionally more women use online alcohol interventions but also report less robust treatment outcomes compared to men. Less is known about outcome disparities among veteran women, who are a growing demographic nationally. The current study examined gender differences among returning veteran men and women who used VetChange, a web-based intervention for hazardous drinking and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). METHOD Using data from a nationwide implementation study of returning combat veterans (n = 222), we performed hierarchical linear modeling to examine gender differences in alcohol and PTSS outcomes over six months following VetChange registration. Additional analyses examined gender differences in proportional changes in hazardous drinking and at each assessment point. RESULTS Returning veterans reported significant decreases in alcohol use and PTSS over time, yet men evidenced significantly greater reduction in average weekly drinks and drinks per drinking day compared to women. Follow up analyses indicated that women were significantly less likely than men to achieve low-risk drinking by one month post-registration. Proportional change in alcohol use yielded marginal and non-significant trends that were, nonetheless, consistent with the overall pattern of gender differences. CONCLUSION These results contribute to emerging literature suggesting that women use online alcohol use interventions at proportionately higher rates than do men, but do not reduce their drinking as much as men. There are a number of potential content changes that could improve outcomes for returning veteran women using online interventions, and data-driven adaptations based on stakeholder input are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA.
| | - Tracy Simpson
- Center of Excellence in Substance Addiction, Treatment, and Education (CESATE), VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Keren Lehavot
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle-Denver HSR&D Center of Innovation (COIN), Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Victoria Ameral
- Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Deborah J Brief
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Justin Enggasser
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Scott Litwack
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Monica Roy
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
| | | | - Terence M Keane
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
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Enggasser JL, Livingston NA, Ameral V, Brief DJ, Rubin A, Helmuth E, Roy M, Solhan M, Litwack S, Rosenbloom D, Keane TM. Public implementation of a web-based program for veterans with risky alcohol use and PTSD: A RE-AIM evaluation of VetChange. J Subst Abuse Treat 2020; 122:108242. [PMID: 33509419 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2020.108242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence-based web and mobile interventions are available for a range of mental health concerns. Little is known about how self-administered web interventions are used outside of controlled research trials, and there is a critical need to empirically examine real-world public implementation of such programs. To this end, the aim of the current study was to evaluate and describe outcomes of a nationwide public implementation of VetChange, a self-administered web intervention for veterans with problematic alcohol use and symptoms of PTSD. METHOD The study used the RE-AIM framework to organize outcomes along five key dimensions: reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance. This naturalistic observation study included program use information for all who registered an account with VetChange during the 2-year study period and who self-identified as a returning veteran. We collected program use data automatically via normal website operation; a subset of program users provided additional self-report outcome data. The study used linear multilevel mixed modeling to evaluate changes in alcohol use and PTSD symptoms over a six-month postregistration period. RESULTS VetChange successfully reached a large, geographically diverse sample of returning veterans with risky drinking and PTSD symptoms. Despite variable, overall modest, rates of intervention use over time, registered users demonstrated significant improvements in drinking, PTSD, and quality of life, and participants maintained these outcomes at a six-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Given the observed low cost per acquisition, positive clinical outcomes, and the potential to produce long-term cost savings through reduced health care burden associated with chronic alcohol use disorder and PTSD, this study demonstrates how web-based interventions can provide public health benefits and reduce long-term health care costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Enggasser
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victoria Ameral
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deborah J Brief
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy Rubin
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric Helmuth
- Education Development Center, Waltham, MA, USA; Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Monica Roy
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marika Solhan
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott Litwack
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David Rosenbloom
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Terence M Keane
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
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Livingston NA, Ameral V, Banducci AN, Weisberg RB. Unprecedented need and recommendations for harnessing data to guide future policy and practice for opioid use disorder treatment following COVID-19. J Subst Abuse Treat 2020; 122:108222. [PMID: 33303255 PMCID: PMC7973255 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2020.108222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic struck in the midst of an ongoing opioid epidemic. To offset disruption to life-saving treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), several federal agencies granted exemptions to existing federal regulations. This included loosening restrictions on medications for OUD (MOUD), including methadone and buprenorphine. In this commentary, we briefly review policy and practice guidelines for treating OUD prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We then outline specific MOUD treatment policy and practice exemptions that went into effect in February and March 2020, and discuss the ways in which these unprecedented changes have dramatically changed MOUD treatment. Given the unprecedented nature of these changes, and unknown outcomes to date, we advocate for a data-driven approach to guide future policy and practice recommendations regarding MOUD. We outline several critical clinical, research, and policy questions that can inform MOUD treatment in a post-COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | - Victoria Ameral
- Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States of America
| | - Anne N Banducci
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; National Center for PTSD, Women's Health Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Risa B Weisberg
- U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States of America; Department of Family Medicine, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States of America
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Mahoney CT, Livingston NA, Wong MM, Rosen RC, Marx BP, Keane TM. Parallel process modeling of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and alcohol use severity in returning veterans. Psychol Addict Behav 2020; 34:569-578. [PMID: 32118464 PMCID: PMC9077743 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with higher levels of alcohol use among returning veterans. Persistent PTSD symptoms can predict alcohol use over the span of hours, days, weeks, and months; however, knowledge of the strength of these associations beyond 1 year remains limited. In this study, we examined the 6-year course of co-occurring PTSD and alcohol use to explicate the directional and possible enduring effects of PTSD on alcohol use severity over time. Our study included 1,649 returning veterans (M age = 37.49; SD = 9.88) who completed 4 waves of data collection between 2010 and 2016. We used parallel process modeling to evaluate temporal associations between PTSD symptoms and alcohol use severity across 4 (T1-T4) waves of data collection. PTSD and alcohol use both decreased significantly between T1 and T4 and in tandem with one another. That is, decreases in one were associated with decreases in the other. Further, individuals with higher levels of PTSD symptom severity at T1 reported accelerated rates of change regarding PTSD symptoms and alcohol use over time. Conversely, baseline alcohol use severity did not predict the rate of change in PTSD symptom severity. Our findings provide evidence of a prospective association between PTSD symptoms and alcohol use and highlight the potential for reciprocal associations between them over the span of years. Importantly, our demonstration of the natural course of co-occurring PTSD symptoms and alcohol use suggests further trauma-focused and combined intervention strategies are needed to disrupt this enduring and reciprocal pattern among returning veterans. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin T. Mahoney
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA,National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA,National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Maria M. Wong
- Department of Psychology, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID
| | | | - Brian P. Marx
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA,National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Terence M. Keane
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA,National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
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Livingston NA, Mahoney CT, Ameral V, Brief D, Rubin A, Enggasser J, Litwack S, Helmuth E, Roy M, Solhan M, Rosenbloom D, Keane T. Changes in alcohol use, PTSD hyperarousal symptoms, and intervention dropout following veterans' use of VetChange. Addict Behav 2020; 107:106401. [PMID: 32272356 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts report high rates of drinking, PTSD, and low rates of treatment engagement. Web interventions may help address unmet treatment need; unfortunately, little is known regarding outcomes or adherence to these interventions. In this study, we examined VetChange treatment outcomes and downstream effects of alcohol reduction on PTSD symptoms and intervention dropout rates over six months. METHOD Participants included 222 veterans (77.5% men, 78.3% White) between 22 and 57 (mean age = 36.02, SD = 7.19). All VetChange users completed a brief alcohol assessment and received personal feedback, then received full access to intervention content including psychoeducation; motivational and cognitive-behavioral modules for relapse prevention, goal-setting, social support, stress, anger, and sleep management; and mood and drink tracking. Veterans completed self-report measures of alcohol use and PTSD symptoms at baseline, one, three, and six months. RESULTS Alcohol use dropped by 43% over six months, p < .001, with the largest decrease occurring within the first month. Greater alcohol reduction in the first month predicted higher subsequent PTSD hyperarousal severity. Over half (52.3%) dropped out by month one, followed by 12.2% and 37.6% by months three and six. Hyperarousal symptoms, hypervigilance specifically, but not alcohol use predicted subsequent intervention dropout. CONCLUSION These results highlight the importance of attending to the association between alcohol use and PTSD symptom change in web-based interventions for veterans. The fact that hyperarousal symptoms were associated with elevated risk for intervention dropout signifies the need for online intervention refinement aimed at tailoring content to time-varying symptom presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Colin T Mahoney
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victoria Ameral
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Deborah Brief
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amy Rubin
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Justin Enggasser
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott Litwack
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Monica Roy
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marika Solhan
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Terence Keane
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University, School of Medicine, USA; U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
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Livingston NA, Berke D, Scholl J, Ruben M, Shipherd JC. Addressing Diversity in PTSD Treatment: Clinical Considerations and Guidance for the Treatment of PTSD in LGBTQ Populations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 7:53-69. [PMID: 32421099 PMCID: PMC7223966 DOI: 10.1007/s40501-020-00204-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review Trauma exposure is widespread but is especially common among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals. LGBTQ individuals also experience higher rates of discrimination, victimization, and minority stress which can complicate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment but also represent independent intervention targets. In this review, we highlight existing evidence-based practices, current limitations, and provide recommendations for care in the absence of established guidelines for treatment PTSD among LGBTQ patients. Recent findings Trauma-focused therapies (e.g., CPT, PE) and medications (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs) have shown benefit for people with PTSD. However, evaluations of these interventions have failed to examine the role of LGBTQ identities in recovery from trauma, and existing PTSD treatments do not account for ongoing threat to safety or the pervasive minority stress experienced by LGBTQ patients. In addition, many LGBTQ patients report negative experiences with healthcare, necessitating increased education and cultural awareness on the part of clinicians to provide patient-centered care and, potentially, corrective mental health treatment experiences. Summary Providers should routinely assess trauma exposure, PTSD, and minority stress among LGBTQ patients. We provide assessment and screening recommendations, outline current evidence-based treatments, and suggest strategies for integrating existing treatments to treat PTSD among LGBTQ patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA USA.,2Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA.,3VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA USA
| | - Danielle Berke
- 4Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York City, NY USA.,5The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York City, NY USA
| | - James Scholl
- 2Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA USA.,3VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA USA
| | - Mollie Ruben
- 6Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME USA
| | - Jillian C Shipherd
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Boston, MA USA.,National Center for PTSD, Women's Health Sciences Division, Boston, MA USA.,8Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Health Program, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC USA
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Livingston NA, Flentje A, Brennan J, Mereish EH, Reed O, Cochran BN. Real-time associations between discrimination and anxious and depressed mood among sexual and gender minorities: The moderating effects of lifetime victimization and identity concealment. Psychol Sex Orientat Gend Divers 2020; 7:132-141. [PMID: 34026920 DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Background Sexual and gender minorities (SGM) experience higher rates of depression and anxiety, which are linked to higher rates of discrimination and victimization. SGM individuals may conceal their SGM identities to decrease discrimination and victimization exposure; however, these experiences still occur, and concealment itself is often associated with greater anxiety and depression. However, it remains unclear whether lifetime victimization and identity concealment moderate the effect of day-to-day discrimination, which we evaluated in the current study using ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Methods Fifty SGM participants (Mage=21.82, SD=4.70; 84% White) completed baseline assessment (e.g., concealment and lifetime victimization) followed by EMA of daily discrimination and anxious and depressed mood for 14 days. Results As hypothesized, daily discrimination predicted momentary increases in anxious and depressed mood, b = .34, p < .001. Notably, these effects were more pronounced among individuals who reported higher levels of identity concealment, b = .25, p < .001, and previous SGM-based victimization experiences (marginally), b = .18, p = .05. Main effects of cumulative lifetime victimization and identity concealment, measured at baseline, were associated with higher ratings of anxious and depressed mood over the two-week study. Discussion While identity concealment may reduce exposure to discrimination and victimization, we found that concealment and prior victimization predict heightened reactivity to daily discrimination experiences. Additional research is needed to further explicate real-time effects of minority stress exposure, and to develop interventions that may mitigate risk among SGM individuals with prior victimization exposure and higher levels of identity concealment in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
| | - Annesa Flentje
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - James Brennan
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT
| | - Ethan H Mereish
- Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, D.C
| | - Oakleigh Reed
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT
| | - Bryan N Cochran
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT
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Ruben MA, Livingston NA, Berke DS, Matza AR, Shipherd JC. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Veterans' Experiences of Discrimination in Health Care and Their Relation to Health Outcomes: A Pilot Study Examining the Moderating Role of Provider Communication. Health Equity 2019; 3:480-488. [PMID: 31559377 PMCID: PMC6761590 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2019.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) veterans report discrimination in health care, which may be associated with negative health outcomes/behaviors and has implications for LGBT identity disclosure to providers. Quality provider communication may serve to offset some of the deleterious effects of discrimination; however, no research to date has examined provider communication with respect to health among LGBT patients. Methods: Participants were 47 LGBT veterans who completed measures related to past health care experiences, experiences of discrimination in health care, perceptions of provider communication, and measures of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, and alcohol/tobacco use. Results: The majority of LGBT veterans reported experiencing LGBT-based discrimination in health care, which was associated with higher rates of tobacco use and less comfort in disclosing their LGBT identity to providers. We also found evidence of moderation, such that high-quality provider communication appeared to buffer these associations. Conclusion: LGBT veterans face unique challenges with respect to receiving appropriate health care. The high frequencies of reported discrimination in health care is problematic and warrants further research and intervention. These results highlight the important role of provider communication, and the potential for quality communication to buffer against certain effects, particularly with respect to tobacco use and LGBT identity disclosure, which is an important protective factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mollie A Ruben
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, Maine.,Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Danielle S Berke
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York.,The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York
| | - Alexis R Matza
- LGBT Health Program, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Jillian C Shipherd
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.,LGBT Health Program, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, District of Columbia.,National Center for PTSD, Women's Health Sciences Division, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts
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Livingston NA, Berke DS, Ruben MA, Matza AR, Shipherd JC. Experiences of trauma, discrimination, microaggressions, and minority stress among trauma-exposed LGBT veterans: Unexpected findings and unresolved service gaps. Psychol Trauma 2019; 11:695-703. [PMID: 30998062 DOI: 10.1037/tra0000464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE LGBT veterans experience high rates of trauma, discrimination, and minority stress. However, guidelines for case conceptualization and treatment remain limited. The aim of the current study was to examine the experiences of trauma and other high impact experiences among LGBT veterans to inform case conceptualization and treatment. METHOD We recruited 47 LGBT veterans with a history of exposure to LGBT-related Criterion A trauma and performed semistructured interviews about their experiences in trauma treatment, barriers to engagement, and treatment needs and preferences. We used thematic analysis of qualitative codes guided by inductive and deductive approaches to characterize the variety of trauma and high impact experiences reported. RESULTS LGBT veterans disclosed a range of clinically relevant stressors, including Criterion A traumatic events, minority stress, and microaggression experiences, including interpersonal and institutional discrimination perpetrated by fellow service members/veterans, citizens, therapy group members, and health care providers. CONCLUSION These data provide a unique account of LGBT veteran's identity-related trauma and concomitant interpersonal and institutional discrimination, microaggression experiences, minority stress, and traumatic stress symptoms. Findings highlight existing service gaps regarding evidence-based treatments for the sequalae of trauma, discrimination, microaggressions, and minority stress. In addition, we noted past and present issues in military and health care settings that may lead to or exacerbate trauma-related distress and discourage treatment seeking among LGBT veterans. We provide suggestions for clinical work with LGBT veterans and encourage ongoing research and development to eliminate remaining service gaps. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Shipherd JC, Ruben MA, Livingston NA, Curreri A, Skolnik AA. Treatment experiences among LGBT veterans with discrimination-based trauma exposure: A pilot study. J Trauma Dissociation 2018; 19:461-475. [PMID: 29601292 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2018.1451973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Past research suggests that rates of trauma exposure and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are elevated among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) veterans compared to heterosexual and cisgender veterans. Given higher rates of trauma exposure and PTSD, and the culture associated with the Department of Defense's history of policies excluding LGBT people, it is important to understand if LGBT veterans are seeking PTSD treatment following discrimination-based traumatic events, where they seek care, and if they are satisfied with treatment. This study aimed to describe the experiences of discrimination-based trauma-exposed LGBT veterans' (n = 47) experiences with PTSD treatment, including location of treatment (Veterans Health Administration [VHA] versus non-VHA) and satisfaction with care. The majority of veterans had received a PTSD diagnosis from a health-care provider in their lifetimes (78.72%, n = 37), and over half reported currently experiencing PTSD symptoms. Approximately 47% of LGBT veterans with discrimination-based trauma histories preferred to seek PTSD treatment exclusively at VHA (46.81%) or with a combination of VHA and non-VHA services (38.30%). Veterans who received PTSD treatment exclusively from VHA reported higher satisfaction ratings (7.44 on 0-9 scale) than veterans who received PTSD treatment exclusively from outside VHA (5.25 on 0-9 scale). For veterans who sought PTSD treatment at both VHA and non-VHA facilities, there were no significant differences regarding satisfaction ratings for their PTSD treatment in the two settings. Results are discussed in terms of VHA's continued efforts to establish equitable, patient-centered health care for all veterans and the importance of non-VHA facilities to recognize veteran identities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian C Shipherd
- a Department of Veterans Affairs , LGBT Health Program, Office of Patient Care Services , Washington , DC , USA.,b Women's Health Sciences Division , National Center for PTSD , Boston , MA , USA.,c Psychology Service , VA Boston Healthcare System , Boston , MA , USA.,d Department of Psychiatry , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Mollie A Ruben
- e School of Arts and Sciences , Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University , Boston , MA , USA.,f US Department of Veterans Affairs , Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System and Bedford VA Medical Center, Boston and Bedford , MA , USA
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- c Psychology Service , VA Boston Healthcare System , Boston , MA , USA.,d Department of Psychiatry , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , MA , USA.,g Department of Psychology , University of Montana , Missoula , MT , USA
| | - Andrew Curreri
- b Women's Health Sciences Division , National Center for PTSD , Boston , MA , USA.,c Psychology Service , VA Boston Healthcare System , Boston , MA , USA.,h Boston VA Research Institute, Inc ., Boston , MA , USA
| | - Avy A Skolnik
- f US Department of Veterans Affairs , Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Boston Healthcare System and Bedford VA Medical Center, Boston and Bedford , MA , USA.,i Department of Health Law, Policy and Management , Boston University School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
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Livingston NA, Flentje A, Heck NC, Szalda-Petree A, Cochran BN. Ecological momentary assessment of daily discrimination experiences and nicotine, alcohol, and drug use among sexual and gender minority individuals. J Consult Clin Psychol 2017; 85:1131-1143. [PMID: 29189029 PMCID: PMC5726448 DOI: 10.1037/ccp0000252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals experience elevated rates of minority stress, which has been linked to higher rates of nicotine and substance use. Research on this disparity to date is largely predicated on methodology that is insensitive to within day SGM-based discrimination experiences, or their relation to momentary nicotine and substance use risk. We address this knowledge gap in the current study using ecological momentary assessment (EMA). METHOD Fifty SGM individuals, between 18 and 45 years of age, were recruited from an inland northwestern university, regardless of their nicotine or substance use history, and invited to participate in an EMA study. Each were prompted to provide data, six times daily (between 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.) for 14 days, regarding SGM-based discrimination, other forms of mistreatment, and nicotine, drug, and alcohol use since their last prompt. RESULTS Discrimination experiences that occurred since individuals' last measurement prompt were associated with greater odds of nicotine and substance use during the same measurement window. Substance use was also more likely to occur in relation to discrimination reported two measurements prior in lagged models. Relative to other forms of mistreatment, discrimination effects were consistently larger in magnitude and became stronger throughout the day/evening. CONCLUSION This study adds to existing minority stress research by highlighting the both immediate and delayed correlates of daily SGM-based discrimination experiences. These results also contribute to our understanding of daily stress processes and provide insight into ways we might mitigate these effects using real-time monitoring and intervention technology. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Livingston
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Annesa Flentje
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nicholas C. Heck
- Department of Psychology, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | | | - Bryan N. Cochran
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
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Livingston NA. Avenues for Future Minority Stress and Substance Use Research among Sexual and Gender Minority Populations. Journal of LGBT Issues in Counseling 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/15538605.2017.1273164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A. Livingston
- Department of Psychology, The University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
- VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Livingston NA, Christianson N, Cochran BN. Minority stress, psychological distress, and alcohol misuse among sexual minority young adults: A resiliency-based conditional process analysis. Addict Behav 2016; 63:125-31. [PMID: 27471197 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2016.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual minority young adults experience elevated rates of distal stress (discrimination, victimization), and related psychological distress and alcohol misuse. However, few studies have examined the degree to which personality trait differences confer risk/resilience among sexual minority young adults. We hypothesized that psychological distress would mediate the relationship between distal stress and alcohol misuse, but that these relationships would be moderated by personality trait differences. METHOD Sexual minority young adults (N=412) were recruited nationally. Survey measures included demographic questions, minority stressors, Five Factor personality traits, and current psychological distress and alcohol misuse symptoms. We used a data-driven two-stage cluster analytic technique to empirically derive personality trait profiles, and conducted mediation and moderated mediation analyses using a regression-based approach. RESULTS Our results supported a two-group personality profile solution. Relative to at-risk individuals, those classified as adaptive scored lower on neuroticism, and higher on agreeableness, extraversion, conscientiousness, and openness to experience. As predicted, psychological distress mediated the relationship between distal stress and alcohol misuse. However, personality moderated these relationships to the degree that they did not exist among individuals classified as adaptive. DISCUSSION In the current study, we found that personality moderated the established relationships between distal stress, psychological distress, and alcohol misuse among sexual minority young adults. Future research is needed to further explicate these relationships, and in order to develop tailored interventions for sexual minority young adults at risk.
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Lindquist LM, Livingston NA, Heck NC, Machek GR. Predicting depressive symptoms at the intersection of attribution and minority stress theories. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2016.1217498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Gleason HA, Livingston NA, Peters MM, Oost KM, Reely E, Cochran BN. Effects of state nondiscrimination laws on transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals' perceived community stigma and mental health. Journal of Gay & Lesbian Mental Health 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/19359705.2016.1207582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Heck NC, Mirabito LA, LeMaire K, Livingston NA, Flentje A. Omitted data in randomized controlled trials for anxiety and depression: A systematic review of the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity. J Consult Clin Psychol 2016; 85:72-76. [PMID: 27845517 DOI: 10.1037/ccp0000123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The current study examined the frequency with which randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of behavioral and psychological interventions for anxiety and depression include data pertaining to participant sexual orientation and nonbinary gender identities. METHOD Using systematic review methodology, the databases PubMed and PsycINFO were searched to identify RCTs published in 2004, 2009, and 2014. Random selections of 400 articles per database per year (2,400 articles in total) were considered for inclusion in the review. Articles meeting inclusion criteria were read and coded by the research team to identify whether the trial reported data pertaining to participant sexual orientation and nonbinary gender identities. Additional trial characteristics were also identified and indexed in our database (e.g., sample size, funding source). RESULTS Of the 232 articles meeting inclusion criteria, only 1 reported participants' sexual orientation, and zero articles included nonbinary gender identities. A total of 52,769 participants were represented in the trials, 93 of which were conducted in the United States, and 43 acknowledged the National Institutes of Health as a source of funding. CONCLUSIONS Despite known mental health disparities on the basis of sexual orientation and nonbinary gender identification, researchers evaluating interventions for anxiety and depression are not reporting on these important demographic characteristics. Reporting practices must change to ensure that our interventions generalize to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons. (PsycINFO Database Record
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Annesa Flentje
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco
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Flentje A, Livingston NA, Sorensen JL. Meeting the Needs of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Clients in Substance Abuse Treatment. Counselor (Deerfield Beach) 2016; 17:54-59. [PMID: 28111527 PMCID: PMC5245827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Annesa Flentje
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Nicholas A. Livingston
- Department of Psychology, The University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive Missoula, Montana 59812
| | - James L. Sorensen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco, California 94110
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Livingston NA, Hargrove T, Greiman L, Myers A, Ipsen C, Ravesloot C. An investigation into the temporal scaling of community participation measurement. Rehabil Psychol 2015; 60:367-375. [PMID: 26618217 DOI: 10.1037/rep0000062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Community participation remains fundamental to contemporary models of disability. However, the effect of temporal scaling on the measurement of participation has not been explored. This study examined the similarities and differences between two different temporal scales (i.e., seven-day recall vs. in situ) on participation measurement. RESEARCH METHOD We collected seven-day retrospective recall data using a self-report paper-and-pencil measure (i.e., the Brief Community Engagement Questionnaire) from a community-based sample (N = 525) of individuals who endorsed one or more items of the American Community Survey disability screening questions. A subset of these participants (n = 148) completed an ancillary ecological momentary assessment (EMA) study, which involved repeated, in situ, daily measurements of participation for two weeks. Corresponding participation items from each method were compared. RESULTS Survey and EMA participation data were relatively consistent over repeated measurements, suggesting reliability across methods and temporal scaling. Consistency across activities was most evident for major activities that tend to require regular behavior (e.g., work and volunteering). Conversely, lower base rate behavior demonstrated less stability regardless of temporal resolution. CONCLUSION Understanding the implications of temporal resolution for participation measures is valuable for advancing ecological participation models. Future research is needed to develop consensus on participation measurement and provide a solid basis for developing ecological models of participation.
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Livingston NA, Heck NC, Flentje A, Gleason H, Oost KM, Cochran BN. Sexual Minority Stress and Suicide Risk: Identifying Resilience through Personality Profile Analysis. Psychol Sex Orientat Gend Divers 2015; 2:321-328. [PMID: 26640810 DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual minority-based victimization, which includes threats or enacted interpersonal violence, predicts elevated suicide risk among sexual minority individuals. However, research on personality factors that contribute to resilience among sexual minority populations is lacking. Using the Five-Factor Model, we hypothesized that individuals classified as adaptive (versus at-risk) would be at decreased risk for a suicide attempt in the context of reported lifetime victimization. METHOD Sexual minority-identified young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 (N=412) were recruited nationally and asked to complete an online survey containing measures of personality, sexual minority stress, and lifetime suicide attempts. RESULTS A two-stage cluster analytic method was used to empirically derive latent personality profiles and to classify respondents as adaptive (lower neuroticism and higher extroversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness) or at-risk (higher neuroticism, lower extroversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness) on the basis of their Five Factor Personality trait scores. Adaptive individuals were slightly older and less likely to conceal their sexual orientation, but reported similar rates of victimization, discrimination, and internalized heterosexism as their at-risk counterparts. Logistic regression results indicate that despite reporting similar rates of victimization, which was a significant predictor of lifetime suicide attempt, adaptive individuals evidenced decreased risk for attempted suicide in the context of victimization, relative to at-risk individuals. DISCUSSION These findings suggest that an adaptive personality profile may confer resilience in the face of sexual minority-based victimization. This study adds to our knowledge of sexual minority mental health and highlights new directions for future research.
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Flentje A, Livingston NA, Roley J, Sorensen JL. Mental and Physical Health Needs of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Clients in Substance Abuse Treatment. J Subst Abuse Treat 2015; 58:78-83. [PMID: 26314505 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2015.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) orientation predicts greater substance use, treatment utilization, and poorer mental and physical health, but health needs of LGB individuals in substance abuse treatment remain largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify differences in mental and physical health needs of LGB individuals in substance abuse treatment. METHODS Substance abuse treatment admissions data from the County of San Francisco were used in this investigation of differences in mental and physical health problems and service utilization between LGB (n=1,441) and heterosexual individuals (n=11,770). RESULTS LGB individuals were more likely to have mental health diagnoses (adjORs ranging from 1.86 to 4.00) and current mental health prescription medications (adjORs from 1.79 to 4.99) than heterosexual counterparts. Gay and bisexual men and bisexual women but not lesbian women, were more likely to be receiving mental health treatment. Gay men and bisexual women were more likely than heterosexual counterparts to report physical health problems. Gay and bisexual men and bisexual women but not lesbian women were more likely to be receiving health care. There were no differences between LGB individuals and heterosexual counterparts in the number of emergency room visits or hospital overnight stays. DISCUSSION This study found that LGB individuals entering substance abuse treatment have greater mental and physical health needs than heterosexual counterparts. Implications for healthcare integration, research, and practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annesa Flentje
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, San Francisco, California, 94143.
| | - Nicholas A Livingston
- Department of Psychology, The University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive Missoula, Montana, 59812
| | - Jason Roley
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco, California, 94110; School of Medicine, Drexel University, 3300 Henry Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19129
| | - James L Sorensen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco, California, 94110
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