Perception of unmet needs and association with benzodiazepine misuse among patients on a methadone maintenance treatment programme

Abstract

Aims and method: To examine patients' perceptions of unmet needs during methadone maintenance treatment (MMT), and to explore the relationship between co-occurring benzodiazepine misuse and severity of needs. A cross-sectional survey was carried out at an MMT programme in Dublin, Ireland. All patients were invited to participate on a voluntary basis. Of the 191 eligible patients, 107 agreed to participate and completed the Camberwell Assessment of Need questionnaire. Results: Unmet needs for substance misuse treatments, daytime activities, socialisation, money management and psychological distress were high. Fifty-two respondents (49%) reported using non-prescribed benzodiazepines during the past month. Compared with non-users of benzodiazepines, benzodiazepine users reported higher ratings of total and unmet needs (P < 0.05). The number of days using benzodiazepines predicted the severity of needs. Clinical implications: The findings highlight the importance of addressing coexisting psychological needs, and further support enhancing treatment interventions for benzodiazepine misuse or dependence among patients on MMT. Declaration of interest: None.