This week highlights a frustrating disconnect among clinicians who treat SUDs, a surprising source of hope for seniors, and a compelling new case study.
So Why Aren’t They Using It?
Most clinicians agree that family involvement can make all the difference for patients with substance use disorders (SUDs). Yet few routinely connect patients with family support services, according to a new survey in The Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders.
Researchers surveyed more than 100 psychiatry and internal medicine providers at a large urban academic medical center. Their goal? To assess their knowledge, attitudes, and confidence around integrating family support into SUD treatment.
Nearly all respondents saw family involvement as a critical component of care. More than 90% agreed that it improves outcomes and treatment adherence. While nearly two-thirds admitted that it can drive relapse rates. Despite this overwhelming consensus, more than 70% also said they rarely refer patients (or their families) to support services.
Confidence (or a lack thereof) emerged as a fundamental obstacle. Almost two-thirds of providers reported feeling neutral or uncomfortable incorporating family support into treatment plans, even as they acknowledged what it can do. Younger clinicians seem to be even less sure of themselves than their more seasoned peers.
And internal medicine providers displayed much lower comfort levels than psychiatrists. Psychiatrists dealt with SUD patients much more often. And they were far more likely to trust the evidence supporting family-based interventions.
They also showed greater confidence in integrating these services into care, compared with internal medicine clinicians, many of whom conceded to limited familiarity or training.
The authors argue that these gaps expose uneven exposure to psychosocial models of care. They also point to a greater need for targeted education, simulations, and practical training. Without such efforts, they warn, family support will languish as little more than a theory, despite its potential to drive recovery and curb relapse.
IN OTHER PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROLOGY NEWS
- The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry reports that a “smartphone app” enhanced general cognitive function and visuospatial memory and reduced loneliness in older adults at high risk for dementia.
- PCC has published a case report about a teen who developed transient loss of consciousness and confusion after minimal alcohol intake, highlighting a rare adolescent presentation of pathological intoxication that can mimic neurologic emergencies.
- JCP this week also documents a trial that found that a three-month aerobic exercise program dramatically cut dysphoric moods in individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis.
- In a letter to the editor of PCC, readers consider potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between GLP-1 agonists and AUD – as well as studies evaluating semaglutide for AUD.
- Finally, a new review reveals that prenatal exposure to pregabalin isn’t consistently linked to higher risks of major birth defects or adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.
