A systematic review of technology-based interventions for co-occurring substance use and trauma symptoms

J Telemed Telecare. 2017 Sep;23(8):701-709. doi: 10.1177/1357633X16664205. Epub 2016 Aug 17.

Abstract

Introduction Technology-based mental health interventions are becoming increasingly common, and several have begun to target multiple outcomes in a single intervention. Recent developments in the treatment of co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder has led to the development and testing of technology-based interventions for these disorders. The current systematic review examined technology-based interventions designed to improve mental health outcomes among patients with co-occurring trauma symptoms and substance use. Methods Of 601 articles reviewed, 14 included a technology-based intervention for patients with these co-occurring problems. Results Seven of these studies provided preliminary evidence that technology-based interventions are likely to be efficacious in reducing either trauma symptoms or substance use. The seven remaining studies demonstrated that technology-based interventions for co-occurring trauma symptoms and substance use are feasible. Discussion This review suggests that technology-based interventions for co-occurring trauma symptoms and substance use are feasible, but more work is needed to assess efficacy using scientifically rigorous studies.

Keywords: Posttraumatic stress symptoms; interventions; posttraumatic stress disorder; substance use; technology.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Mental Health
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / epidemiology*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / therapy*
  • Telemedicine / organization & administration*