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Examining Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression as Predictors of Dropout from Residential Treatment for Substance Use Disorders
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  • Alyssa M. Medenblik,
  • Alisa R. Garner,
  • Evan J. Basting,
  • A. Sullivan Jacqueline,
  • C. Jensen Mary,
  • Ryan Shorey,
  • Gregory Stuart
Alyssa M. Medenblik
The University of Tennessee Knoxville

Corresponding Author:amedenbl@vols.utk.edu

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Alisa R. Garner
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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Evan J. Basting
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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A. Sullivan Jacqueline
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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C. Jensen Mary
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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Ryan Shorey
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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Gregory Stuart
The University of Tennessee Knoxville
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Abstract

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are highly prevalent and have deleterious effects on one’s health and well-being. Inpatient treatment for SUDs reduces patient relapse, which subsequently ameliorates these negative effects on the individual and society. Additionally, those who complete treatment are less likely to relapse compared to those who do not complete treatment. Thus, maintaining patient engagement in treatment and reducing the rates of those leaving against medical advice (AMA) is particularly important. Examining the factors and comorbidities that may contribute to treatment dropout has the potential to identify at-risk patients in need of additional individualized intervention. The current study aimed to examine comorbid anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms as predictors of dropout AMA in a residential substance use treatment population. Results showed that patients with social anxiety were more likely to leave treatment AMA, while those with PTSD were more likely to complete treatment. Findings suggest that PTSD-specific treatment, as offered in this facility, may help with patient retention, while group focused therapy may be distressing to those with social anxiety. Clinical implications of this research may include incorporating evidence-based practice for social anxiety early during inpatient treatment to reduce anxiety such that patients may better engage with SUDs treatment.
20 Sep 2023Submitted to Journal of Clinical Psychology
21 Sep 2023Submission Checks Completed
21 Sep 2023Assigned to Editor
01 Oct 2023Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
02 Oct 2023Reviewer(s) Assigned
28 Feb 20241st Revision Received
28 Feb 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
06 Mar 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
01 Apr 2024Editorial Decision: Accept