The relationship between substance use and posttraumatic stress disorder in a methadone maintenance treatment program

Abstract

Introduction and Aims: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is frequently linked with substance abuse. The self-medication hypothesis suggests that some people may use illicit substances in an attempt to self-treat psychiatric symptoms. This study explores the relationship between substance abuse and PTSD symptom clusters in a methadone maintenance population. Design and Methods: Clients of a methadone maintenance program at a public Drug and Alcohol Service were invited to complete the PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version, a screening tool for PTSD. Information about their history of substance use was also collected. Results: Eighty clients (43 female, 37 male), aged 35 ± 8.0 years (mean ± SD), ..