Behavioral treatment of substance abuse in schizophrenia.
Co-occurring substance use disorders are highly prevalent among individuals with schizophrenia and other serious and persistent mental illnesses (SPMI) and are associated with clinically significant consequences. A multifaceted behavioral treatment called Behavioral Treatment for Substance Abuse in Serious and Persistent Mental Illness (BTSAS) can reduce substance abuse in persons with SPMI. The key treatment strategies in BTSAS include a urinalysis contingency, short-term goal setting, training in drug refusal skills, psychoeducation about the impact of drug use, and relapse prevention training. A case example illustrating the application of BTSAS is presented and relevant clinical issues are discussed.
Tenhula
Wendy N
WN
VA Capital Health Care Network Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA. wendy.tenhula@va.gov
Bennett
Melanie E
ME
Strong Kinnaman
Joanna E
JE
D000739:Anecdotes as Topic; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D015897:Comorbidity; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012559:Schizophrenia; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control*