Risk factors for revictimization during treatment in patients with co-occurring SUD and PTSD.

In 30 seconds

This analysis of the Treatment of PTSD and Addiction randomized controlled trial examined factors associated with revictimization among 203 patients with co-occurring substance use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder who had experienced interpersonal victimization at baseline. Over 9 months, 42.5% experienced revictimization. Physical violence was the most common reported type (26.0%), followed by other unwanted sexual experiences (20.0%). PTSD severity and age were univariate predictors, but only age remained robustly associated after accounting for the other study variables; younger age was associated with greater risk.

Key findings

• Revictimization occurred in 42.5% of participants during the 9-month follow-up.
• Physical violence was reported by 26.0%, and other unwanted sexual experiences by 20.0%.
• PTSD severity and age were univariate predictors, but only younger age remained robustly associated with revictimization after adjustment.

Why it matters

The findings indicate that repeated interpersonal victimization is a substantial concern among patients receiving treatment for co-occurring SUD and PTSD. Recognising this burden can support clinical attention to patients’ safety and inform research into factors linked to vulnerability, while the observed age association does not establish a causal mechanism.

What to keep in mind

The analysis included only patients with interpersonal victimization at baseline, and follow-up was limited to 9 months. The reported associations do not establish causation.