Psychiatric histories of drug using mothers: Treatment implications

One hundred forty six crack/cocaine using mothers in New York City were interviewed in a cross sectional study about life histories and drug related behaviors. Forty one (28%) reported histories of previous psychiatric medication or hospitalization. These women were significantly more likely than the rest of the sample to currently be in drug treatment; to have sexual abuse histories; and to be currently involved with men who urged them to use crack during pregnancy. Within this group, two subgroups were distinguishable: one, who had been sexually abused and initiated drug use early, and the other whose psychiatric and drug use histories were not associated with sexual abuse. The implications of these findings for screening, treatment planning, and future research are discussed.