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Improving PTSD/Substance Abuse Treatment in the VA: A Survey of Providers
Author(s) -
Najavits Lisa M.,
Norman Sonya B.,
Kivlahan Daniel,
Kosten Thomas R.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
the american journal on addictions
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.997
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1521-0391
pISSN - 1055-0496
DOI - 10.1111/j.1521-0391.2010.00039.x
Subject(s) - substance abuse , gratification , psychiatry , posttraumatic stress , psychology , veterans affairs , addiction , comorbidity , substance abuse treatment , psychiatric comorbidity , clinical psychology , substance use , medicine , psychotherapist
We surveyed 205 Veterans Affairs (VA) staff on treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (SUD), and the combination (PTSD/SUD). The survey was anonymous and VA‐wide. PTSD/SUD was perceived as more difficult to treat than either disorder alone; gratification in the work was stronger than difficulty (for PTSD, SUD, and PTSD/SUD); and difficulty and gratification appeared separate constructs. Respondents endorsed views that represent expert treatment for the comorbidity; however, there was also endorsement of “myths.” Thus, there is a need for more training, policy clarifications, service integration, and adaptations for veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Limitations are described. (Am J Addict 2010;19:257–263)