Causes of addiction, motives for quitting and reasons behind failure to quit from the point of view of addicts in Minia Hospital for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment.

Abstract

Background: Addiction is a major problem in Egypt, due to the rapidly growing and changing patterns of substance use. There is a lack of comprehensive study on substance use especially in Upper Egypt and more attention must be paid, which help in addressing the problem more effectively and planning services accordingly. Aim of the study: The present study aimed to determine addict's perception regarding causes of addiction, motives that push addicts for quitting and reasons behind failure to quit. Research methodology: This is a cross-sectional hospital-based survey study that was conducted among 150 addicts and their family caregivers in Minia Hospital for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment. Results: The findings revealed that the majority of the studied addicts reported performance-related causes of addiction, most of addicts were concerned about the health and legal consequences of addiction which pushed them to quit and seek treatment. Withdrawal symptoms was the most obstacle to quit addiction as reported by addicts. Conclusion: Reasons for addiction indicted the fact that addicted patients were experiencing a greater range of stressful life events, health and legal concern was very influential in helping individuals make the decision to seek treatment services and reasons behind failure of quitting addiction indicate the importance of providing medical, social and financial support for the addicts during and after treatment from addiction. Recommendation: There is a need of increase attention regarding addiction causes and how to avoid it among the general population and increase addict awareness about impact of addiction on their life style and their families.