Dysthymia, major depression, and double depression among individuals receiving substance abuse treatment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare dysthymia, double depression (DD), and major depressive disorder (MDD) among individuals receiving substance abuse treatment on individual characteristics and mental health factors including age, gender, alcohol and drug dependence, number of previous mental health and substance abuse treatments, number of suicide attempts and attempts under the influence, and perceived quality of life. Out of the 336 medical records reviewed, 41.4% had dysthymia, 4.5% had MDD, and 14% had DD. Results indicated gender differences among those who had dysthymia and MDD, and age differences for those with dysthymia. Mental health factors associated with different mood disorders included alcohol dependence, drug dependence, suicide attempts, suicide attempts under the influence, and quality of life. Implications for the mental health field are discussed, underlining the importance of developing and providing competent treatment for clients with co-occurring disorders.