Date of Graduation
Fall 12-12-2014
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Behavioral Health (MSBH)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
First Advisor
Dr. Kathy Raffel
Abstract
As a part of the Masters of Science in Behavioral Health field placement, an evaluation was conducted of the integrated treatment plan in mental health and substance abuse at Bay Area Addiction Research and Treatment (BAART) programs. The goal of the BAART programs are to provide comprehensive mental health and substance abuse outpatient recovery services, as well as on-site primary health care services for substance users, mainly opioid use. There is a link between increased substance abuse and increased rates of depression and anxiety. These disorders use the same neuro chemical pathway and are highly codependent upon one another. Because of this there is a need to treat both the mental health and substance abuse problem in parallel for best results.
The researcher examined the interaction of the substance abuse problem and mental health concerns to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment in the areas concerning anxiety, depression, and substance use. The evaluation revealed that there was not a statistically significant decrease in any of the variables. Based upon the results, recommendations were made to improve patient treatment. The recommendations consisted of using motivational interviewing to assess what part of the change process the client was in in order to provide the best recommendation for potential treatment options. This included adding medication therapy for low functioning clients with severe symptoms of anxiety or depression to improve overall outcomes. The paper also looked into more holistic treatments for clients who are more fragile with less severe psychiatric symptoms and would prefer to eliminate any risk of relapse. The goal of the evaluation is to help BAART provide more patient centered care to each of their clients that will lead to long lasting change. The study will aid in the improvement of the overall integrated program at BAART Programs in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District.
Recommended Citation
Khahera, Gursimran, "An Evaluation of Mental Health and Methadone: Anxiety, Depression, and Drug Use" (2014). Master's Projects and Capstones. 31.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/31
