BACKGROUND: Recent studies have shown that discrimination is associated with individual health. This study assessed the association between perceived discrimination and mental health status in inner-city DUs. METHODS: DUs were recruited through street outreach in Harlem in 2000. Persons >18 years old who had used heroin, crack or cocaine in the previous 6 months were eligible for this study. Participants were asked about socio-demographic factors, drug use, social support and perceived discrimination due to different personal characteristics (e.g., age, race, sex, drug use). Mental health status was measured using the Mental Health (MH) score of the SF-36 instrument and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD). Multivariable regression analyses assessed the relationship between discrimination and mental health. RESULTS: Of 309 respondents, 89% reported discrimination due to at least one personal characteristic. Drug use (81%) and previous incarceration (45%) were the most commonly reported reasons for discrimination. In multivariable linear regression models, discrimination due to drug use was significantly associated with poorer mental health status (b=-7.3, p=0.01). In separate multivariable logistic models, discrimination due to drug use was significantly associated with depressive symptoms defined as a CESD score ³ 16 (OR=3.3, p=0.01). All models controlled for baseline demographic factors, drug use, physical symptoms, and social support. CONCLUSIONS: Perceived discrimination due to drug use was negatively associated with mental health status and positively associated with depressive symptoms. Perceived discrimination might be an important consideration in developing strategies aimed at improving the mental health of DUs.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in the session will be able to: 1. Discuss the association between discrimination and mental health in drug users 2. List social determinants that may affect mental health status of a vulnerable population 3. Develop an strategy for improving mental health of drug users.
Keywords: Drug Abuse, Mental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.