Pathways from victimization to substance use: Post traumatic stress disorder as a mediator

• We examined the inter-relationship among victimization, PTSD, and substance use.
• Victimization at age 19–29 was directly associated with substance use at age 36.
• Victimization at age 19–29 was also associated with PTSD at age 36.
• PTSD at age 36 was related to substance use at age 36.

Traumatic events are linked with an array of adverse consequences such as substance use. Only a few individuals exposed to traumatic events, however, suffer from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or substance use. The present longitudinal study examined the inter-relationship among victimization, PTSD, and substance use. 674 participants (53% African Americans, 47% Puerto Ricans) were surveyed over five time waves at mean ages 14, 19, 24, 29, and 36. Of the 674, 60% were females. We used Mplus to perform structural equation modeling. Victimization at ages 19, 24, and 29 was directly associated with substance use at age 36 and was also related to PTSD at age 36. PTSD, in turn, was related to substance use at age 36. This study indicates the importance of intervention for those who have been victimized with a focus on PTSD treatment. From a public health perspective, health providers should consider treatment and prevention programs for helping individuals cope with some of the consequences of victimization. This might ultimately reduce substance use.