Patients With Dual Diagnoses or Substance Use Disorders Only: 12-Step Group Participation and 1-Year Outcomes

Abstract

We compared outpatients (regional facility) with substance use and psychiatric (N == 199) or only substance use (N == 146) disorders on baseline and one-year symptoms (93%% follow-up), and treatment and 12-step group participation over the year (2005). We examined whether diagnostic status moderated associations between participation and outcomes (Addiction Severity Index) with regressions. At follow-up, dual diagnosis patients had more severe symptoms, despite comparable treatment. The groups were comparable on 12-step participation, which was associated with better outcomes. However, associations of participation with better outcomes were weaker for dual diagnosis patients. Study (VA HSR&D-funded) implications and limitations are noted and research suggested.