Work

Trauma and ICD-11 PTSD in substance use disorder treatment: a Danish multi-site study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Previous research has indicated high levels of PTSD among people with substance use disorder (SUD). This study expands that work to a Danish SUD population, assessing the prevalence of ICD-11 PTSD diagnoses, sociodemographics, and trauma- and substance-related factors. We also compare differences between individuals in treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and drug use disorder (DUD). METHODS: The study used a multi-site approach, with data from five Danish SUD treatment settings. A total of 1347 adults were interviewed as part of an initial structured screening for SUD treatment. Participants were assessed using ICD-11 PTSD criteria. RESULTS: Approximately 25% of individuals in treatment met criteria for probable PTSD, with an additional 15% evidencing subclinical PTSD. PTSD prevalence was higher in DUD treatment than AUD treatment. The study also highlights significant differences in social functioning and clinical profiles between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of PTSD symptoms among individuals in SUD treatment indicates a need for targeted interventions. PTSD should be a particular focus in DUD treatment due to the high vulnerability and prevalence of trauma-related symptoms in this subgroup.

Source: BMC Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1186/s12888-025-07164-w

Authors: S. Karsberg, L. Najavits, M. U. Pedersen, A. Elklit, M. L. Vang

Institutions: Aarhus University, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, University of Southern Denmark, Odense University Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Research

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,290