Written emotional expression during recovery from cocaine dependence: group and individual differences in craving intensity.
We conducted a prospective, single-blind, parallel group, controlled trial to evaluate effects of written emotional expression in patients receiving intensive treatment for cocaine dependence in a residential-unit setting. Randomization to the emotional expression treatment produced changes in blood pressure and mood during writing sessions, possibly because of its ability to stimulate active coping behavior. At an initial follow-up visit, patients that had received written emotional expression reported lower values for craving intensity and were less likely to self-report use of cocaine. These results may indicate a therapeutic effect of written emotional expression during recovery from cocaine dependence.
Grasing
Kenneth
K
Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research Service 151, Kansas City, Missouri, USA. kenneth.grasing@med.va.gov
Mathur
Deepan
D
Desouza
Cherilyn
C
D000328:Adult; D019970:Cocaine-Related Disorders / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D007174:Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology*; D019260:Expressed Emotion; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D014956:Writing