Analysis of The Relationship Between Depression, Drug And Substance Use Among The University of Eldoret Students

Abstract

Drug and substance use among university students is becoming common and can result in a range of academic, physical, mental, and social challenges The relationship between depression, drugs and substance use among undergraduate students is complex and multifaceted, and more research is needed to understand the nature of this relationship fully. Therefore, this study sought to analyse the relationship between depression, drug and substance use among the University of Eldoret undergraduate students. The objectives of the study were to: determine the depression levels among undergraduate students using drugs and substances, examine the levels of drugs and substance use among the undergraduate students, and analyse the relationship between depression, drug, and substance use among the University of Eldoret students. This study used a mixed-methods approach, adopting descriptive survey research design and correlational research design. The study targeted 14,000 students enrolled at the University of Eldoret and 7 departmental heads. Snowballing approach was used to select the students who use drugs and substances, and all the 7 departmental heads were selected. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and an interview schedule. Undergraduate students who use drugs and substances were given these two data collection tools. The qualitative data from interview schedules were analysed using a thematic method and presented in the form of verbatims and reports. The quantitative data from questionnaires were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics using Scientific Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. Descriptive statistics included frequency, mean, standard deviation, and percentages. Inferential statistics included chi-square. The study findings revealed that most respondents (71.1%) reported experiencing symptoms of depression and mental distress before they started using drugs and substances. A considerable proportion of respondents (94.5%) reported having someone express concern about their drinking habits or advise them to reduce consumption. There was a significant association between drug substance usage and depression, with the higher frequency of drug use being associated with a higher percentage of individuals reporting depression (χ2 = 33.471, df = 12, p = .001). The study concluded that most students (71.1%) experience depression before engaging in drug and substance use, emphasizing the need for early detection and intervention strategies. The study recommended that universities should prioritize Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) initiatives to address depression symptoms among students. Universities should foster a supportive environment, promoting well-being and academic success through support groups and policies to promote the students' mental health and psychosocial well-being. This study contributes to knowledge by highlighting the relationship between depression and drug use among students. It emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention strategies, as well as the need for universities to prioritize mental health support initiatives