Serious Mental Illness, Substance Use, and Related Problems among People on Probation

• In Event: Motivational and Technology-Based Approaches to Reducing Substance Use Among Probationers: Results from a Multi-Site RCT

Abstract

Individuals on probation are at greater risk of having a mental or substance use disorder compared to the general population (SAMHSA, 2011; SAMHSA, 2014), and these disorders often co-occur (CBHSQ, 2015). We examined the associations between serious mental illness (SMI), substance use, and consequences of use among a sample of people on probation. To gather data on substance consequences, we used a modified version of the Short Inventory of Problems designed to assess the problems experienced by using any type of drug (not just alcohol) across multiple dimensions of one’s life (i.e., physical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, risky behaviors, responsibilities, legal; Miller & Longabaugh, 1995). A substantial proportion of the sample (37%) screened at risk of having an SMI, such as major depression or bipolar disorder. Those who screened at risk of having an SMI reported more substance use problems despite using substances at rates comparable to those not at risk. There are several risk factors that may account for more problematic substance use among those with SMI.

Authors

• Matthew E. Rossheim, George Mason University

• Melvin D. Livingston, University of North Texas Health Science Center

• Faye S. Taxman, George Mason University

• Scott T. Walters, University of North Texas Health Science Center