Treatment For Co-occurring Substance Use Disorders Research Articles

Evidenced-Based Time-Limited Treatment of Co-occurring Substance-Use Disorders and Civilian-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Substance use disorders (SUDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occur, and this comorbidity results in a more severe clinical presentation and treatment outcome. Consensus is lacking regarding best practices; however, a number of integrated psychosocial treatments (e.g., Seeking Safety, Substance-Dependence PTSD Therapy, Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Cocaine Dependence) have shown empirically supported promise in reducing symptoms of both disorders. Very little research has been conducted to date on pharmacological treatments for this dual diagnosis or on assessments. This article reviews the developing literature in this area and discusses future directions for research.