Beck Depression Inventory

Beck Depression Inventory Facts

According to the APA, there are a number of different versions of the Beck Depression Inventory, including:

• Numerous computerized versions
• Card form
• 13-item short form
• BDI-11

The BDI should not take patients more than 10 minutes to complete as long as they have at least a 5th grade reading level.

A study that explored the efficacy of the BDI and published in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing found that the test was a “valid and reliable instrument for measuring depression.” Additionally, the study found that it would be effective for use among those who also struggle with alcoholism. Dual Diagnosis instances of substance abuse and mental health issues like depression are exceedingly common and, as such, diagnostic and evaluation tools that are effective in this population can help personalize their treatment.

Dual Diagnosis: Alcoholism and Depression

One of the most common combinations of co-occurring disorders among patients who seek treatment is alcoholism and depression. A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse found that symptoms of alcoholism were greater among those patients who were depressed. Is it because alcoholism is a depressant and depression is one of the symptoms? Or does the alcoholism come after a depression disorder develops – either as a symptom of another issue or as a disorder unto itself? Both are common, and the answers to those questions will vary according to the patient.

Substance Abuse and Self-Medication

Many patients who struggle with depression will use drugs like alcohol and other substances to self-medicate their feelings of hopelessness, sadness and joylessness. Unfortunately, though alcohol may initially have the effect of relaxing the drinker, over time and when consumed in large amounts, it has the opposite effect, often increasing the experience of depression. Ultimately, it can mean the development of an equally dangerous disorder, an alcohol use disorder that requires directed treatment as well.

When both a substance abuse disorder and depression are in evidence, Dual Diagnosis treatment that addresses both issues at the same time is recommended. Why? The symptoms of one disorder often trigger or exacerbate issues of the other. For example, if the depression is treated but alcoholism continues, the treatment will be ineffective because drinking can trigger episodes of depression. If alcoholism is treated and depression is ignored, then one of the biggest temptations to drink goes unaddressed and the patient may be more likely to relapse.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Find the best possible treatment for your loved one when Dual Diagnosis care is necessary. Contact us at the phone number listed above today and learn about our programs at Foundations Recovery Network that can help your loved one.