Mental Health Care for Patients with Opioid Use Disorder and Methamphetamine Use in Methadone Maintenance Treatment: Experiences and Perspectives

Untreated co-occurring mental health disorders (MHD) and substance use disorders (SUD) are associated with negative treatment outcomes. This study explored the experiences and perspectives of patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) who were using methamphetamine while undergoing methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) regarding barriers and facilitators to accessing MHD services. We conducted 30 in-depth interviews with MMT participants with varying levels of MHD severity, assessed using the 21-item Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21). Barriers to seeking MHD services included lack of awareness, fear of additional stigma and extra burden to families, unaddressed poly-substance use, and lack of specialized professionals. Benefits of integrating MHD services into MMT clinics included improved diagnosis, streamlined referrals, and reduced logistical challenges. Key facilitators identified included supportive family members, healthcare professionals, and digital platforms. Integrating MHD care into MMT, emphasizing family involvement, staff training, and digital platforms, holds promise to improve MHD diagnosis, referral, and treatment.