Comparison of opioid use disorder patients with and without problematic internet use in terms of impulsivity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

• Published in: Revista brasileira de psiquiatria Vol. 46; p. e20243585
• Main Authors: Bal, Neşe Burcu, Örnek, Bahar Yeşil
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Brazil Associação Brasileira de Psiquiatria 2024; Associação Brasileira de Psiquiatria (ABP)
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Anxiety - psychology; Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity - psychology; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depression - psychology; Female; Humans; Impulsive Behavior; impulsivity; Internet Addiction Disorder - psychology; Male; Middle Aged; opioid use disorder; Opioid-Related Disorders - psychology; Original; Problematic internet use; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; PSYCHIATRY; Self Report; Young Adult; opioid use disorder; impulsivity; attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Problematic internet use
• ISSN: 1516-4446; 1809-452X; 1809-452X
• DOI: 10.47626/1516-4446-2024-3585

To investigate attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and impulsivity among individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder (OUD) who also exhibit symptoms of problematic internet use (PIU). The study involved the participation of 360 patients with OUD enrolled at an alcohol and drug addiction treatment center (ADATC) from October to December 2022. Various assessment tools were administered, including Young's Internet Addiction Scale (YIAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS), and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). PIU was identified by YIAS scores equal to or exceeding 50. Most participants diagnosed with OUD had comorbid PIU, with high levels of depression, anxiety, and ADHD symptoms. Both BDI and BAI scores were significantly increased in the PIU group compared to the non-PIU group (p < 0.001). Significant differences were observed in BIS Motor Impulsivity, Attentional Impulsivity, and total scores, indicating higher impulsivity in the PIU group (all p < 0.001). Additionally, higher ASRS scores were found in the PIU group (p < 0.001). These findings highlight the importance of addressing PIU and comorbidities in OUD treatment. Interventions targeting ADHD symptoms and emotional well-being may benefit PIU management.