Behavioral health disorders increase opioid dependence post-surgery

A significant association was found between behavioral health disorders and new persistent opioid use following major surgeries. Among 62,585 patients studied, 20.3% with behavioral health disorders developed persistent opioid use compared to 16.6% without. This group also required higher median morphine doses. Additionally, those with behavioral health disorders had 32% greater odds of developing new opioid dependence. These findings highlight the complex relationship between mental health and opioid management in surgical patients.