Effect of Alcohol Use on Mental Health of Persons With Physical Disability: A Case of Members of Association For The Physically Disabled of Kenya (Apdk)

Abstract

Alcohol abuse is a global issue that affects many people from diverse backgrounds, professions, social status among others. This study analysed the effect of alcohol use on the mental health status of persons living with physical disabilities in Kenya, with a specific focus on individuals in Nairobi County. The research aimed to determine the prevalence of alcohol use, examine the social effect of alcohol among persons with physical disability, investigate the emotional effect, and assess the overall mental health status among persons with physical disabilities registered with the APDK in Nairobi, Kenya. Guided by social learning theory, the biological model, and the theory of rational addiction, the study employed a descriptive correlational research design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data was collected through sociodemographic and structured validated questionnaires, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Sampling methods included purposive sampling to select participants from specific Nairobi County areas and stratified sampling based on APDK registration data, resulting in a sample size of 108. Three FGDs were conducted to gather qualitative insights until data saturation was reached. The study found a high prevalence of alcohol use among persons with physical disabilities in Nairobi County, with many participants consuming 3 to 6 drinks daily and incurring substantial weekly alcohol expenses. Majority represented age group were males aged 31-40 years representing (47.6%) of the respondents. Behaviorally, alcohol abuse led to increased aggression (88.6%) among the respondent and 85.7% of respondents reported negative effects on their relationships with significant others. This suggested that alcohol use among PWPDs was particularly prevalent in this demographic population. The alcohol consumption led to significant mental health issues, including high psychological distress, and severe health problems like liver diseases and ulcers. Behavioural issues such as aggression, violence, and frequent accidents were common, negatively affecting social relationships and overall quality of life. The study concluded that alcohol use greatly worsened the mental health and wellbeing of PWPDs. The study beneficiaries include United Disabled Persons of Kenya, APDK, alcohol recovery, rehabilitation and treatment centres and Africa Mental Health Foundation as well as related policy makers. Recommendations include enhanced psychoeducation on alcohol effect, robust support systems and counselling services, economic empowerment initiatives, and community engagement to create supportive environments for PWPDs. The study suggested further research in conducting longitudinal studies to track the long-term effect of alcohol abuse on the mental health, physical health, and social outcomes of PWPDs, in-depth personal interviews to draw underlying motivations, comparative studies against normal populations and policy analysis to check prevention, treatment and intervention gaps