No abstract

The main goal of this research is to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptomatology amongst a population of Maltese substance users and to critically evaluate the existing therapeutic setting for patients with coexisting conditions. as well as to propose concrete management changes corresponding with the results of this study. The study was conducted. using a questionnaire composed of the 'Substance Abuse Assessment Questionnaire'. and three depression scales-the 'Beck Depression Inventory', the Zung 'Self-rating Depression Scale'. and the 'Visual Analogue Scale for Depression'. A substantial prevalence of depressive symptomatology among substance users was found. The need of a population survey in Malta for verification of results is suggested. Some implications regarding treatment strategy and management of these cases in Malta are mentioned.