Managing depressive symptoms in the context of abstinence: findings from a qualitative study of women.
OBJECTIVE
In both community and clinical studies, higher rates of co-occurring depression and substance use disorder have been found in women. Within the past decade, there has been a plethora of research addressing co-occurring depression and substance abuse. However, comparatively few studies include individuals who suffer with depressive symptoms, which may not meet specific diagnostic criteria despite the significant impairment they may experience.


METHODS
An ethnographic method was used to elicit the experiences of women dependent on alcohol and/or other substances and who have stopped drinking and/or using.


RESULTS
Findings corroborated those from previous studies in which depressive symptoms preceded substance abuse and continued during sustained abstinence. Separation in services between mental health and substance abuse resulted in fragmented care.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on these findings, recommendations for screening, assessment, and treatment implications are forwarded.
Ambrogne
Janet A
JA
Decker School of Nursing, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, USA. jambrogn@binghamton.edu
D000328:Adult; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000451:nursing* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D015897:Comorbidity; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D003863:Depression / Q000451:nursing*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012307:Risk Factors; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000451:nursing*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000451:nursing* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D013695:Temperance / Q000523:psychology