Chronic Illness, Pain and Health Behaviors of Community Behavioral Health Clients

Persons with comorbid medical disorders, along with substance use disorders and mental illness, present complex treatment needs that are seldom addressed. Chronic physical illness negatively affects treatment participation and retention, decreasing effectiveness. Studies documenting higher medical m...

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Veröffentlicht in:Psychological services 2006-11, Vol.3 (4), p.215-226
Hauptverfasser: Gallagher, Sandra M, Brooks, Audrey J, Penn, Patricia E
Format: Artikel
Sprache:eng
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Zusammenfassung:Persons with comorbid medical disorders, along with substance use disorders and mental illness, present complex treatment needs that are seldom addressed. Chronic physical illness negatively affects treatment participation and retention, decreasing effectiveness. Studies documenting higher medical morbidity and mortality in such persons have long been available. Less is known about their health behaviors. Respondents ( n = 418) at a community behavioral health center were surveyed for prevalence of illness, pain, health behaviors, and interest in lifestyle change. A total of 73% reported at least one chronic health problem, and nearly half rated their health between fair and very poor. Most reported at least one negative health indicator or behavior (e.g., smoking). Encouragingly, nearly 50% desired lifestyle changes including smoking cessation, exercise, and stress management.
ISSN:1541-1559
1939-148X
DOI:10.1037/1541-1559.3.4.215