Hispanics in Specialty Treatment for Substance Use Disorders

Abstract

With the growing number of Hispanics in the U. S. and the accompanying growing number of Hispanic clients in the specialty substance abuse treatment system, it is increasingly pertinent to ensure that they receive appropriate and relevant treatment for substance use disorders. We use nationally representative data to determine the sociodemographic, substance use, mental health, and treatment characteristics of Hispanic clients in specialty substance abuse treatment, as compared to non-Hispanic White clients. Hispanic clients are in treatment more often for heroin use and are referred to treatment more often by the criminal justice system. More White clients receive individual counseling than Hispanic clients. Hispanic clients have fewer co-occurring mental disorders than White clients, but a similar history of mental health treatment. These findings set the stage for refining the agenda to develop the most effective treatments for Hispanics with substance use disorders.