Reasons Pertaining to Substance Abuse among Undergraduates in Chennai

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Substance abuse and dependence among undergraduates in India are very concerning as they are next in line to contribute to the social and economic needs of the country. The alarming increase in substance use also contributes to various physical and mental illnesses. OBJECTIVES: This research aims to identify the root cause and initial indulgence in substance consumption to prevent the increase of usage and loss of human potential to enhance the quality of society in the upcoming years. METHODS: An observational study with a cross-sectional design was done among 174 participants. This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was done among undergraduates aged between 19-22 in Medical, Dental, Engineering, and Arts and Science College students studying in Chennai. A Drug and Alcohol (DAP) questionnaire for screening of alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis along with a Semi-Structured Performa about socio-demographic factors was used to collect the data. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version-21, Chi-Square Test descriptive for finding out the outcome variable. RESULT: About 62.7% tried alcohol/smoking for the first time because they were ‘curious’ followed by 29.4% stating that it was due to ‘emotional disturbances’, 23.5% due to ‘having free time’, 19.6% because they were ‘stressed’,17.6% due to ‘college’ as the three most chosen reasons. Among 45 participants who were consuming substances, 32.4% felt neglected at home. Of the remaining 133 who did not consume any substances when asked the reason for their non-consumption, 28.7% were ‘not interested', 15.7% said it was due to ‘self-control’ and 5.6% said ‘both’. CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that ‘curiosity’ was the reason for the initial consumption of the substance but the reason for the continuation of the habit is because of emotional disturbances, stress, or feeling neglected at home and by society. Prevention and treatment of substance abuse and dependence should consider these factors. This can help lay better intervention and relapse strategies for the upcoming generation.