Factors Associated with An Increase in Substance-Induced Psychosis Among Young Male Adults Aged 15-30 Years: A Qualitative Case Study at Ndola Teaching Hospital Psychiatric Unit, Zambia

Abstract

Kelvin Kemmus Mulenga, Thamary Karonga and Kudzai Thelma Munyoro

Background: Substance-induced psychosis (SIP) has become a growing public health concern in Zambia. Ndola Teaching Hospital Psychiatric Unit reported 535 admissions of young males aged 15-30 years with SIP in 2022-2023, reflecting a significant upward trend.

Aim: To explore factors associated with the increase in SIP among young male adults aged 15-30 years at Ndola Teaching Hospital Psychiatric Unit.

Methods: An exploratory-descriptive qualitative study was conducted from June to August 2023. Twenty young males diagnosed with SIP were purposively sampled. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and data were ehaviou thematically using Caulfield’s framework. The Health Belief Model guided interpretation.

Results: Three themes emerged: 1) Knowledge: 80% had poor understanding of SIP and its link to substance use. 2) Attitudes: Normalization of substance use, peer pressure, and use for stress relief were common. 3) Practices: Unemployment, poverty, early onset, easy access to cannabis and alcohol, and lack of recreational opportunities were key drivers.

Conclusion: The rise in SIP is driven by knowledge gaps and socio-economic vulnerabilities. Recommendations include school-based mental health education, youth livelihood and recreation programs, and strengthening Community Health Assistants to provide early screening and intervention.

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