Substance use among persons with traumatic brain injury: A review

Article type: Research Article

Authors: West, Steven L.

Affiliations: Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Center for Rehabilitation Science and Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, P.O. Box 3038, Richmond, VA, USA. Tel.: +1 804 827 2562; Fax: +1 804 828 0336; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: This paper provides a review of the current literature in the area of substance use and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Collectively, these studies demonstrate that substance use and SUD are common in the TBI population both pre- and post-injury, are a frequent causative factor in injury acquisition, complicate the rehabilitation process, and have substantial negative impact on individual health and well being. Further, individuals with a demonstrated SUD and concurrent TBI are likely to be severely limited in their ability to access SUD care due to physical barriers. This literature is reviewed and then considered in terms of its general weaknesses. Finally, a brief outline of future research needs is provided.

Keywords: Substance abuse, substance use disorders, brain injury

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2011-0671

Journal: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 1-8, 2011