Abstract
Aims and MethodWard staff were asked to rate whether in-patients with a diagnosis of functional psychotic illness also met criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol or drug misuse or dependence during the preceding 6 months. Those who demonstrated such evidence were then asked to report the nature and extent of their substance use and whether they continued to use as in-patients.Results264 in-patients with psychotic illness were screened for evidence of recent or current alcohol or drug misuse. According to staff reports, 127 (48.9%) met the criteria for substance misuse or dependence. The mean age of those with ‘dual diagnosis' was 34.7 years and 72% were male. Eighty-three (83%) of those with a history of current or recent alcohol or drug misuse reported that they had continued to use alcohol and/or illicit drugs in the in-patient wards during their current admission.Clinical ImplicationsIt appears difficult to prevent in-patients with drug or alcohol misuse problems from continuing to use substances in hospital. Further consideration and investigation of how best to manage this group is therefore required.
Highlights
264 in-patients with psychotic illness were screened for evidence of recent or current alcohol or drug misuse
The present study investigated the prevalence of dual diagnosis among adults of working age with psychotic illness in in-patient wards and the extent of their continued substance use as in-patients
Basic demographic data were recorded for all those screened in the sample. Those rated in the initial screening phase as showing evidence of a dual diagnosis with substance use disorders were asked by clinical staff if they were willing for the lead researcher (P.P.) to discuss the study with them
Summary
Ward staff were asked to rate whether in-patients with a diagnosis of functional psychotic illness met criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol or drug misuse or dependence during the preceding 6 months.Those who demonstrated such evidence were asked to report the nature and extent of their substance use and whether they continued to use as in-patients
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