Substance use prevalence and outcomes in a psychiatric outpatient population in Southern Gauteng

Abstract

Background: Substance use disorders (SUD) are commonly comorbid with mental illness and worsen outcomes of psychiatric care. Prevalence rates of 40% and 51% have been found for SUDs among psychiatric inpatients in South Africa. Aim: To ascertain the prevalence of SUD in a community psychiatric setting and its impact on care outcomes. Method: A retrospective record review was conducted at a community psychiatric clinic in Southern Gauteng. Results: Of the 368 records included, a SUD was recorded in 45.4% (n=167). Having a SUD was associated with being of a younger age (p<0.0001), male (p<0.0001), single (p<0.0001), having a higher level of education (p<0.0001), and a diagnosis of Schizophrenia (p<0.0001). Regarding care outcomes, SUD was associated with more missed clinic appointments (p<0.0001), more hospital adir issions (p<0.000) ), and a longer duration of hospital stay (p<0.0001).

Conclusion: The prevalence of SUD in a community psychiatric setting is similar to that of in patients. Having a SUD is associated with poorer care outcomes