Aims

To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

For full versions of posted research articles readers are encouraged to email requests for "electronic reprints" (text file, PDF files, FAX copies) to the corresponding or lead author, who is highlighted in the posting.

___________________________________________

Monday, May 17, 2010

Alcohol dependent inpatients who receive general hospital care vs. detoxification in psychiatric care and alcohol problem 1 year later


The aims were to investigate differences between alcohol dependent inpatients who seek alcohol treatment and those who do not seek alcohol specific but general hospital treatment, and to investigate problem drinking 12 months after hospitalization.

Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that higher age, living alone, being employed, previous help-seeking, increased severity of dependence, increased adverse consequences from drinking and increased motivation were significant predictors of receiving alcohol detoxification vs. general hospital treatment. A composite assessment of motivation to change and to seek help was the strongest predictor of positive outcome 12 months later.

Alcohol dependent individuals who receive detoxification in psychiatric care have a more severe alcohol problem and fewer social resources than those treated in general hospitals. Interventions targeting at enhancing motivation to change and to seek help should be part of routine general hospital care and of detoxification treatment in psychiatric care.


Read Full Abstract

Request Reprint E-Mail: freyer@uni-greifswald.de


_______________________________________________________