Depressive Symptoms in Crack and Inhalant Users in Southern Brazil

Abstract

In this study the authors investigated depressive symptoms and correlated psychopathology in crack cocaine and inhalant users in Southern Brazil. Participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory, the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale, and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. General psychopathology, hopelessness and suicidal tendencies were also investigated. Crack and inhalants users presented significant levels of depressive symptoms and psychiatric morbidity. These disorders were significantly associated with hopelessness and suicidal tendencies. These findings underscore the need for more rigorous and extensive screening efforts to detect and treat depressive symptoms in crack and inhalent users.

KEYWORDS:

• Brazil
• cocaine
• crack
• depression
• solvents
• suicide

Notes

BDI: Beck Depression Inventory; BHS: Beck Hopelessness Scale; DIS: Diagnostic Interview Schedule; HAM-D: Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression; MADRS: Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale; SRQ: Self Reporting Questionnaire.

BDI: Beck Depression Inventory; BHS: Beck Hopelessness Scale; DIS: Diagnostic Interview Schedule; HAM-D: Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression; MADRS: Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale; SRQ: Self Reporting Questionnaire.

^a Correlation is significant after Bonferroni correction method.