Biopsychosocial profile of people with substance use disorders treated in governmental hospital

Biopsychosocial factors are important determinants of substance use among individuals. The Biopsychosocial profile of individuals with substance use disorders has not been explored in Saudi Arabia.

To examine the Biopsychosocial profile of people with substance use disorders treated in a governmental hospital in Eradah Complex for Mental Health Services.

A cross-sectional study was carried out at Eradah Complex for Mental Health Service. A convenience sample of 176 respondents was included in the study. Data was collected using an online questionnaire comprised of four parts: Socio-Demographic Characteristics, Addiction and Medical History, Social Support, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21).

The majority of the respondents were male (62.5%), followed by females (37.5%). The majority of them initiated substance use between the ages of 21 and 30 (54.0%), rated their general health as fair (29.5%), and had low social support levels (65.3%). Respondents experienced moderate levels of depression (38.6%), anxiety (41.5%), and stress (42.6%). Multiple regression analysis indicated a positive significant relationship between age, social support, and total DASS-21 scores. Multiple regression analysis revealed that age and level of social support were the only significant predictors of psychological symptoms (DASS-21 total score), with younger age and lower social support associated with higher psychological distress. Other socio-demographic and clinical variables were not significant predictors.

The majority of the respondents had initiated substance use between the ages of 21 and 30 years, had fair health status, and had low social support levels. The respondents experienced moderate levels of depression, anxiety, and stress.