The authors examined the relationship between depressive symptoms, drug-
use pattern, and demographic variables in 432 substance abusers. Assessment
was at intake and at 4 and 8 months. Depression was measured by using the
Beck Depression Inventory, the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, and
the Current and Past Psychopathology Scales. At intake 46% of the subjects
reported moderate or high levels of depression on the Beck scale and 29% of
subjects scored in the high or moderate range of depression on the Hamilton
scale. After eight months, depression scores were significantly lower in
all drug abuse groups. These reducations were not related to type or length
of treatment.Abstract Teaser