Hidden PTSD in substance abuse inpatients among Vietnam veterans

Abstract

Alcohol use patterns among Vietnam combat veterans is an area with little research. This study evaluated three groups of Vietnam subjects on a chemical dependency unit who had a current Axis I diagnosis of alcohol abuse. No subject possessed a PTSD diagnosis. Two groups involved in-country veterans divided by presence or absence of PTSD based on the MMPI-PTSD scale (In- country and PTSD). The third group did not experience combat and was below the mean on the MMPI-PTSD scale (Noncombat). These groups were compared on the MMPI and the Alcohol Use Inventory(AUI), a measure of alcohol use patterns. Results showed that the PTSD Group had significantly higher scores on the MMPI and AUI reflective of deteriorated and binge drinking patterns. Discussion focused on the “hidden” dimension of PTSD among chemically dependent Vietnam veteran inpatients. The Relapse Prevention model was endorsed.