Behavioral changes observed in substance users in Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate how the drug use behaviors of addicted individuals have been affected by the regulations imposed due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, such as quarantine, social isolation, and social distancing, by examining the factors of individuals with alcohol/substance use disorder, such as their levels and frequency of use, withdrawal process, and cravings before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method The sample of the study consisted of 416 individuals who applied to the Green Crescent Consultancy Center (YEDAM), which provides out-patient psychosocial support to alcohol/substance users, such as those using alcohol, substances, and both alcohol and substances. Individuals who applied to the center in the 3 months prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, whose initial examination was conducted, and who had been assessed at least 3 times, were included in the study. A questionnaire was prepared by the authors to examine the addictive behaviors of the individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the survey, the Addiction Profile Index (API) was used. The survey was administered by clinical psychologists. The interviews were conducted by telephone. The individuals who were surveyed consisted of those who had seen and were continuing to see clinical psychologists. Data was collected between May 3rd and 8th, 2020. The data obtained from the questionnaire and from the API forms filled out during the initial application by the individuals were combined. The follow-up phases were categorized and evaluated in 3 different periods. A similar categorization was made for the number of interviews. Comparisons of the addiction characteristics and mental states of those continuing to use alcohol/substances before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and those who did not continue to use, were conducted by evaluating the API sub-scales using the t test. Results The rate of those who said that they did not buy any substances during the COVID-19 pandemic, was 64.4%, while for those who said that they bought it from different sellers during the pandemic was 28.7%. Of those who did not use or infrequently used alcohol/substances before the pandemic, 91% continued to not use alcohol/substances during the pandemic. The rate of those who regularly used alcohol/substances before the pandemic, but discontinued using alcohol/substances or used it less frequently during the pandemic, was 49.1% (N = 52), and those who did not use or infrequently used alcohol/substances before the pandemic, but started to use alcohol/substance regularly, was 9% (N = 28). Conclusion Negative circumstances and a lack of social support were the main factors appeared to have increased substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key health responses, such as following hygiene and social distancing rules and family factors, appear to be protective.