The relationship between social support and suicidal behavior among alcohol and drug addicts

Abstract

Objective(s): This study aims to assess the relationship between social support and suicidal behavior among alcohol and drug addicts. Methodology: A quantitative descriptive analytic study using an assessment approach with questionnaire items is conducted to assess the relationship between social support and suicidal behavior among alcohol and drug addicts for the periods of 5.11.2021 to 10.5.2022. Participants were informed that their participation was voluntary in the study. The purpose and the benefits of the study were explained by the researcher. After they agreed to participate in the study, an anonymous questionnaire was published for the patients to participate in the present study. A convenient sample of (N=100) alcohol and drug-addicted males are selected through the use of a convenient, non-probability sampling approach. The study sample is distributed at Ibn-Rushed psychiatric hospital, department of substance abuse (In-patient wards and consultancy department). A self-report questionnaire (Oslo social support scale) is developed from the literature, for assessing the prevalence of suicidal behavior among alcohol and drug addicts. After completing the required approvals, data was collected by the use of a self-report questionnaire (Hard copy) and interview technique. Results: Results indicate that addicts are perceived low to moderate social support in which 47% perceive moderate social support and 35% perceive low social support. Conclusion: There is a lack of social support between alcohol and drug addicts. Recommendation: Activate the role of group sessions therapy, rise the importance of consulting psychiatrists and minimize social stigma toward psychological consultations