Long-term, bidirectional associations between depressive symptom severity and opioid use among people with HIV: A prospective cohort study

Abstract Time-lagged associations between opioid use and depressive symptoms were significant. Moderate depressive symptoms predicted greater subsequent opioid use frequency. 23% reported moderate, moderately severe, or severe depressive symptoms. Enhanced screening and treatment for opioid use disorder is warranted. Strategies that expand access to mental health services may also be promising. Article type: Research Article Keywords: Depressive symptom severity, HIV, Opioid use, VACS, Veterans Authors: Alexandria Macmadu, Yu Li, Fiona Bhondoekhan, Chung-Chou H. Chang, Anees Bahji, Stephen Crystal, Kirsha S.