Drug Transitions and Substitutions among Recent Veterans Managing Pain and Trauma

• In Event: 251 - Section on Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco Paper Session. Social, Cultural and Contextual Dimensions of Substance Use

Abstract

This mixed methods investigation of substance use among recently returned veterans in NYC identifies processes and dynamics salient to use trajectories and transitions. Exploring physiological, psychological and sociostructural influences on substance use, this analysis investigates how changes in day-to-day life can constitute important risk and protective factors for those using substances as forms of pain management or psychological self-medication. Findings demonstrate the importance of considering confluence of physiological, psychological and sociostructural impacts that can serve to precipitate changes in substance use behavior. By featuring veterans’ own accounts of drug experiences (including non-fatal overdoses), the analysis also assesses participants’ conceptualizations of risk and self-harm. Quantitative data establish the range of predictors impacting such health outcomes as HIV, HCV, overdose, accident, and dependence. Ultimately, this article contributes to scientific understanding of the precipitants of transitions in substance use patterns, particularly among at-risk populations characterized by lower education/income levels and high rates of SUD and other mental health concerns.

Authors

• Alex Bennett, National Development and Research Institutes

• Luther C. Elliott, National Development and Research Institutes

• Andrew Golub, National Development and Research Institutes

• Enrique Pouget, National Development and Research Institutes