Awareness of substance abuse problems and readiness toreceive treatment are salient patient characteristics that have animpact on treatment-seeking behaviour and treatment adherenceHospitalized substance-abuse psychiatric patients are at increasedrisk of denial of their substance abuse problem. In this study wehypothesis that the positive change in the behaviour of addictedpatients is related to the time spent in treatment either as an inpatientor as a regular follow up outpatient. Results: homelessness andcrimes of violence and against property were significantlyassociated with less motivation, recognition of the problem andreadiness are significantly associated with higher motivation.