Neuropsychological Profile of users with Substance Related Disorders

Different studies underline the usefulness of neuropsychological assessment in better understanding the central clinical features of Substance-Related Disorders (SRD), constituting an objective method to assess the effectiveness of treatments and the patient's situation, with the aim of preventing relapses.In short, the assessment of the neuropsychological profile of patientes with SRD helps to better define their individual needs, both in terms of therapeutic intervention and to more effciently guide neurocognitive rehabilitation goals. The aim of this study is to describe the neuropsychological symptomatology, in a sample of users with SRD.

A cross-sectional observational design was carried out. The total sample consists of 31 users, 24 men and 7 women, who were undergoing treatment in two assistance devices for addictive behaviors and addictions ar ARS Norte. This investigation was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of ARS Norte (N.º 128/2017).The data obtained are in agreement with our initial hypothesis, in which we proposed that patients with SRD would present alterations in processing speed, verbal memory, attention, executive functions, as well as high psychopathological symptoms.The impact and damage caused by different manifestations, whether of the deterioration of cognitive and executive function or of psychopathological symptoms, in fifferent daily situations and in the involvement in the treatment process, justify the investment in the development of specific evaluation and intervention processes for SRD.

Routine assessments of the cognitive function of individuals with past or present use of psychoactive substances can help target clients who have the most potential to benefit from cognitive rehabilitation interventions. Such interventions can improve cognitive and social functioning, leading to a better quality of life and better social integration, in addition to contributing to the maintenance of abstinence.