Integrated services for treatment of schizophrenic substance abusers: demographics, symptoms, and substance abuse patterns.
We have previously described a model of outpatient integrated treatment for patients with comorbid psychoactive substance use disorders and schizophrenia (PSUD/S)(1). Here we review relevant literature on comorbidity and outline the rationale for integrated services. Further, we describe results from 3 related studies: First, we document the approximate incidence of PSUD among a heterogeneous group of 602 schizophrenic inpatient admissions to our hospital. Second, we describe in greater detail the psychiatric symptoms and patterns of substance abuse among a subsample of 106 inpatients with PSUD/S, contrasting them with 112 patients with PSUD and mixed psychotic disorders, but who are not schizophrenic. Third, we present a prospective research project and describe a sample of 30 patients with PSUD/S, detailing demographic characteristics, psychiatric symptoms and substance abuse history. Attention is given to current issues in the differential diagnosis of patients with PSUD/S using standardized instruments.
Rosenthal
R N
RN
Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY 10003.
Hellerstein
D J
DJ
Miner
C R
CR
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000553:Ambulatory Care; D015897:Comorbidity; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000145:classification; D008875:Middle Aged; D010343:Patient Admission; D010555:Personality Inventory; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012107:Research Design; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000534:rehabilitation