An Assessment of Substance Use Disorder among Emerging Adults with Psychiatric Comorbidities in Nairobi County, Kenya: Case of Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital

Abstract

The lifetime prevalence of drug use and abuse reaches its highest point in young adulthood, peaking at 49% among 19-20 and 72% by 27. Key characteristics of emerging adulthood include identity exploration, unpredictability in relationships, employment, and residency, self-focus, transitional sentiments, hope and opportunity. Emerging adults with substance use disorder (SUD) typically start using drugs and alcohol at a young age, and understanding the predictors of these behaviours is crucial for etiology and preventive treatments. In 2016, over four out of every ten people were under 25, with 26% aged 0-14 and 16% aged 15 to 24. In 2020, 284 million individuals aged 15 to 64 took drugs globally, a 26% increase over the previous decade. The study aimed to identify substance use disorder prevalence in emerging adults, identify predictors of abuse, assess psychiatric comorbid disorders, and investigate psychological interventions at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital (MNTRH). The study used a mixed-methods research design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, and included male and female in-patients aged 19-35. The study found that a high number of emerging adults in psychiatric facilities are often diagnosed with substance use disorders (SUDs), leading to a higher likelihood of co-occurring disorders. Re-evaluating predictors of SUDs and controlling exposure and use of alcohol are recommended. A conducive environment for emerging adults to thrive is also crucial. Practitioners should intensify assessment of these adults to make better treatment decisions. Further research is needed to determine the situation in other facilities and to rule out transitional challenges among adolescents. The study's findings highlight the need for effective interventions and targeted treatment. The researcher submitted an updated thesis proposal to the Daystar University Institutional Ethics Review Board for approval, and the School of Applied Human Sciences provided a letter of recommendation for the NACOSTI application. After receiving permission, the researcher visited wards at predetermined times to gather data from participants. The Daystar University Ethical Research Committee (DU-ISERC) approved the study, and the researcher obtained informed consent from participants, adhered to secrecy and anonymity principles. Data has been kept private for investigation purposes.