Work

Patterns of Psychiatric Comorbidity Among Drug Users: A Prospective Observational Study in a Romanian Psychiatric Hospital

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A large number of substance use disorders are increasingly associated with complex clinical presentations and unknown mental and medical risks, presenting a growing challenge for mental health worldwide. Research exploring the interplay between substance use and psychiatric disorders remains limited in Eastern Europe. OBJECTIVES: We investigated the demographic and clinical features of 203 patients admitted to a major Romanian psychiatric hospital, aiming to clarify the patterns of dual diagnosis and symptomatology within this vulnerable population. RESULTS: Cannabis, novel psychoactive substances and unknown substances were the most commonly used drugs. Psychiatric comorbidity was rather the rule than the exception within our group. Cluster analysis revealed three distinct symptom profiles: manic/psychotic, negative affective and disorganized. While individual drug type did not independently predict symptom severity or readmission risk, a significant interaction effect between drug use and psychiatric comorbidity influenced symptom cluster membership. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight the complexity and heterogeneity of dual diagnoses and underline the importance of an integrated, multidisciplinary approach in addiction medicine.

Source: Healthcare

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare13192543

Authors: Andreea Atena Zaha, Antonia Lucia Comșa, Dana Carmen Zaha, Cosmin Mihai Vesa

Institutions: University of Oradea, Spitalul Clinic Județean de Urgență Cluj-Napoca

Language: English

Topic: Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258