MA users who seek and obtain treatment may exhibit greater cognitive impairment than
those who do not attend treatment, as suggested by results indicating lower learning
accuracy and spatial memory processing speed and efficiency were found for those treated
compared to those without treatment. Treatment providers may need to modify engagement
and retention strategies based on severity of MA-users’ memory deficits. As indicated in
previous research,5 treatment for MA abuse commonly involves cognitive-behavioral
interventions, thus it is important for providers to understand the cognitive capabilities of
this population, and how individual and clinical characteristics may be related to these
abilities. MA-users presenting with high levels of past-month MA use, poly-substance use
(particularly crack/cocaine), violent behavior problems, and/or significant depressive
symptomatology, in addition to older age and lower levels of education, may be at particular
risk for cognitive deficits.