Follow-up of substance abuse interventions for patients with spinal cord injuries

Pre- and Postinjury Substance Misuse Among Veterans With Spinal Cord Injury.

“…Individuals with SCI who have developed or sustained a chemical addiction clearly have their problems compounded (Radnitz & Tirch, 1995). Substance misuse has been identified as a predominant risk factor for injury onset and is believed to impede the rehabilitation process by impairing learning and increasing morbidity (Heinemann, Doll, Armstrong, Schnoll, & Yarkony, 1991; Heinemann, Doll, & Schnoll, 1989). It has also been associated with higher levels of depression, life stress, and poorer health among persons with SCI.…”

“…Research has demonstrated that information regarding preinjury substance misuse can help identify persons at risk for postinjury abuse (Heinemann, Goranson, Ginsburg, & Schnoll, 1989). Heinemann et al (1991) suggested that an especially crucial time for evaluation occurs during the first few years after the occurrence of an SCI. Such postinjury diagnosis is vital for the reason that, in some people, substance misuse develops as a method for coping with the losses experienced as a result of SCI (Bozzacco, 1990).…”