In a study of 106 predominantly young, lower-social-class men
participating in a methadone maintenance program, the authors found that
about one-third were moderately to severely depressed as assessed on
standard rating scales of depression. The depressive symptoms were
associated with a decrease in social functioning, increase in stress in the
past 6 months, and a history of alcohol abuse. Because the combination of
depression and drug addiction creates a high risk for suicide, depressive
symptoms require early detection and treatment. The authors point to the
need for more research on treatment approaches, particularly the use of
psychotropic drugs.Abstract Teaser