Difference of Anxiety Subscale and Depression Score in Methamphetamine Abuse Prior and after Abstinence Over the Course of Three Weeks in Rehabilitation Center of Medan Plus

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Clinical effect of amphetamine is related to the release of central monoamine in such a long period of time which leads to enhanced stimulation of sympathetic nervous system. Abstinence is defined as a period of restraint in which no substance is used. Anxiety and depression are most common psychiatry problem related to methamphetamine usage that has to be addressed in rehabilitation effort of methamphetamine abuse. AIM: This study is to investigate the difference of anxiety subscale and depression (hospital anxiety and depression scale [HADS]) in methamphetamine abuse prior and after abstinence over the course of 3 weeks in rehabilitation center of Medan Plus. METHODS: This quasi-experimental study was conducted with pre- and post-test design. Sample used in this research was generated through consecutive sampling, part of non-probability sampling, in which 30 subjects that are individuals with methamphetamine abuse were recruited in Rehabilitation Centre of Medan Plus, North Sumatera. Measurement was conducted to assist the effect of 3 weeks abstinence on HADS core. In the other hand, assessment smoking and substance involvement screening test was also used to investigate the length of substance usage. RESULTS: Our study found a significant difference between anxiety and depression symptoms score prior and after 3 weeks abstinence in methamphetamine user (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Following abstinence, several clinical symptoms were seen to be resolved or decreased within the first couple of weeks, including symptoms of anxiety and depression.