Social factors predict treatment engagement in veterans with PTSD or SUD
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Fivecoat, H. C., Lookatch, S. J., Mavandadi, S., McKay, J. R., & Sayers, S. L. (2023). Social factors predict treatment engagement in veterans with PTSD or SUD. The Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research, 50, 286-300. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-022-09823-2
Abstract Created by REACH:
This study examined whether social factors contributed to treatment initiation and appointment attendance rates among Veterans who were referred to treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; n = 2,107) or substance use disorder (SUD; n = 235). Veterans reported on perceived support from friends and relatives, frequency of negative exchanges (e.g., lack of sympathy), and social integration (i.e., frequency of contact with friends, relatives). Overall, Veterans who perceived more social support were more likely to initiate treatment for PTSD, and Veterans who reported more negative exchanges were more likely to initiate treatment for SUD.
Focus:
Substance use
Mental health
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Subject Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Aged (65 yrs & older)
Authors:
Fivecoat, Hayley C., Lookatch, Samantha J., Mavandadi, Shahrzad, McKay, James R., Sayers, Steven L.
Abstract:
Veterans with PTSD and SUDs often fail to initiate, or prematurely discontinue, mental health treatment in Veteran Affairs Medical Centers (VAMC). While much is known about clinical characteristics and demographic factors impacting treatment engagement in this population, less is known about the role of social factors. This retrospective study examines primary care–based screening assessment and specialty mental healthcare appointment data in a VAMC, to test whether social factors predict treatment initiation and appointment attendance. Findings reveal veterans were more likely to initiate treatment when (a) those with SUDs (n = 235) reported more frequent negative exchanges with others and (b) those with PTSD (n = 2107) reported more perceived support or being partnered. Those with PTSD who were partnered had higher appointment attendance rates. Findings suggest social factors are relevant to treatment initiation among veterans with PTSD and SUDs and that close others may be helpful in facilitating referrals.
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Keywords:
veterans, ptsd, posttraumatic stress disorder, substance use disorders
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary
REACH Newsletter: