NCJ Number
198793
Journal
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs Volume: 34 Issue: 3 Dated: July-September 2002 Pages: 281-288
Editor(s)
Richard B. Seymour M.A.,
Terry Chambers B.A.
Date Published
July 2002
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study assessed the prevalence and correlates of depressive symptoms in a community sample of not-in-treatment crack-cocaine users to enhance the understanding of the relationship between cocaine use and depression.
Abstract
In the past, studies on depression among cocaine users focused predominantly on individuals who were in treatment or presenting for treatment. The existence of depressive symptomatology among cocaine users who present for drug abuse treatment is well-established. However, what is not well-established is the prevalence of current depressive disorder among active crack users who are not-in-treatment. This cross-sectional study was designed to determine the prevalence of current depressive symptomatology among a sample of 430 not-in-treatment crack-cocaine users from the Dayton, Ohio, area. A structured baseline interview was administered. Data collected came from the areas of demographic characteristics, drug use practices, and composite scores from the Addiction Severity Index (ASI). The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to assess depressive symptomatology. The study suggests a very high prevalence of depression among active users of crack cocaine. Findings may be interpreted to suggest that treatment programs should routinely employ clinically acceptable screening tools to identify crack cocaine users who may be suffering from depressive disorders. Study limitations are presented and discussed. References