Health and well being of substance use disorder patients with and without posttraumatic stress disorder

While studies link posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to substance use disorders (SUDs), little is known about the health and functional status of patients with such comorbidity. This study examined the health and well being of SUD patients with and without PTSD. Participants were assessed using structured clinical interviews and self-administered questionnaires assessing chronic physical symptoms, and functional status and well being. PTSD was significantly associated with more cardiovascular, neurological, and total chronic physical symptoms. In addition, PTSD was significantly related to poorer functional status and well being, particularly in the mental health realm of functioning. The association between PTSD and mental health component of functional health and well-being remained significant after controlling for chronic physical symptoms and other comorbid psychopathology.