Pub Date : 2023-08-11DOI: 10.1108/dhs-04-2023-0012
C. Wagstaff, Anna E. Davis, Elizabeth Jackson-McConnell, Matilda MacDonald, Ashley Medlyn, S. Pillon
Purpose Homelessness and psychoactive substance (PS) use are both determinants of physical and mental ill health, with the homeless population using, and dying of PSs more frequently than the general population. However, there is a gap in research on the real-world implications psychoactive substance use (PSU) has on the homeless population. This study aims to explore the experiences of PSU from the perspective of homeless users. Design/methodology/approach Purposive sampling was adopted to recruit participants and semi-structured interviews collected data from participants, with interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) generating common themes from the data gathered. Findings Four participants were interviewed. The themes generated were family and close relationships; cyclical patterns; mistrust in people and services; and low self-worth. Research limitations/implications This study is limited by potential bias from researchers who built relationships with participants through the data collection process. Despite efforts to remove this bias, through reflexivity throughout data collection and analysis, some bias may be still present. The researchers saw the participants as vulnerable people who were striving to overcome adversity. Such conception of the participants is reflective of how the participants portrayed themselves. The small sample is suitable for IPA purposes. Of course, it could have been possible that if different participants had been recruited or more participants had been recruited, then there could have been different themes and findings. IPA prides itself on its idiographic focus. Practical implications More research is needed on a wider scale to assess the extent and cause of these issues. Increased education and dissemination of research such as this is required to break down stigma within the public and guide policy change in professional services. Originality/value This paper interpretatively presents themes generated by semi-structured interviews with four homeless PSUs. As such, these individuals are vulnerable and have faced adversity throughout life from both society and the services they use. Their vulnerability leads to a cycle of substance use and a feeling of low self-worth, which is perpetuated by the perceived views of those around them.
{"title":"Experiences of homeless people who use psychoactive substances: an interpretative phenomenological study","authors":"C. Wagstaff, Anna E. Davis, Elizabeth Jackson-McConnell, Matilda MacDonald, Ashley Medlyn, S. Pillon","doi":"10.1108/dhs-04-2023-0012","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-04-2023-0012","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000Homelessness and psychoactive substance (PS) use are both determinants of physical and mental ill health, with the homeless population using, and dying of PSs more frequently than the general population. However, there is a gap in research on the real-world implications psychoactive substance use (PSU) has on the homeless population. This study aims to explore the experiences of PSU from the perspective of homeless users.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000Purposive sampling was adopted to recruit participants and semi-structured interviews collected data from participants, with interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) generating common themes from the data gathered.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Four participants were interviewed. The themes generated were family and close relationships; cyclical patterns; mistrust in people and services; and low self-worth.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000This study is limited by potential bias from researchers who built relationships with participants through the data collection process. Despite efforts to remove this bias, through reflexivity throughout data collection and analysis, some bias may be still present. The researchers saw the participants as vulnerable people who were striving to overcome adversity. Such conception of the participants is reflective of how the participants portrayed themselves. The small sample is suitable for IPA purposes. Of course, it could have been possible that if different participants had been recruited or more participants had been recruited, then there could have been different themes and findings. IPA prides itself on its idiographic focus.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000More research is needed on a wider scale to assess the extent and cause of these issues. Increased education and dissemination of research such as this is required to break down stigma within the public and guide policy change in professional services.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000This paper interpretatively presents themes generated by semi-structured interviews with four homeless PSUs. As such, these individuals are vulnerable and have faced adversity throughout life from both society and the services they use. Their vulnerability leads to a cycle of substance use and a feeling of low self-worth, which is perpetuated by the perceived views of those around them.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"73 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-08-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"74506681","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-08-10DOI: 10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0046
B. Onyima
Purpose This paper aims to explore the misuse of prescription opioids, associated consumption cultures and the emergence of “informal governing images” among young men in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach Using a qualitative research approach involving purposive sampling: six in-depth interviews, one focus group discussion and key informant interviews with two health-care professionals using the transgressive theory approach, this paper explores consumption cultures, motivations and the resultant “informal governing images” associated with the misuse of prescription opioids among young local street high-risk users in Nigeria. Findings Findings show complex expressions of diverse consumption practices, such as grinding, sniffing and concoction of tramadol (TM)with other opioids. The “puff-puff pass” practice serves as induction for new users of opioids commonly accessed through street drug dealers and pharmacists sold via backdoors. Codeine mixtures with different brands of soft drinks for dilution are used to achieve a “lower high” while a concoction of different opioids, with alcohol, and spirits obtains a “higher high”. Manufacturers’ indelible colouring and bottling discourage the non-medical use of opioids. Desiring to be awake for nocturnal activities, mostly “yahoo-yahoo” (internet fraud), sexual enhancement and dosage competitions, are motivations for the non-medical use of prescription opioids. These consumption cultures create “misuse circuits”, leading to the emergence of “informal governing images” triggered by threats from formal controls. Practical implications This paper, therefore, concludes that pharmaceutical industries should also add colourings to TM and codeine just like they did in rophinol to discourage the non-medical use of prescription opioids among young people in Nigeria. Social implications This paper concludes that rather than branding and packaging in such a way that concealability is difficult for high-risk users as the best way to discourage the non-medical consumption of prescription opioids in Nigeria, the focus should be on addressing youth poverty and unemployment and improving access to treatment for drug use disorders, instead of calling for more enforcement-based measures. Originality/value This is an original research.
{"title":"Prescription opioids, consumption cultures and “informal governing images” among “young street guys” in Nigeria","authors":"B. Onyima","doi":"10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0046","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0046","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000This paper aims to explore the misuse of prescription opioids, associated consumption cultures and the emergence of “informal governing images” among young men in Nigeria.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000Using a qualitative research approach involving purposive sampling: six in-depth interviews, one focus group discussion and key informant interviews with two health-care professionals using the transgressive theory approach, this paper explores consumption cultures, motivations and the resultant “informal governing images” associated with the misuse of prescription opioids among young local street high-risk users in Nigeria.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Findings show complex expressions of diverse consumption practices, such as grinding, sniffing and concoction of tramadol (TM)with other opioids. The “puff-puff pass” practice serves as induction for new users of opioids commonly accessed through street drug dealers and pharmacists sold via backdoors. Codeine mixtures with different brands of soft drinks for dilution are used to achieve a “lower high” while a concoction of different opioids, with alcohol, and spirits obtains a “higher high”. Manufacturers’ indelible colouring and bottling discourage the non-medical use of opioids. Desiring to be awake for nocturnal activities, mostly “yahoo-yahoo” (internet fraud), sexual enhancement and dosage competitions, are motivations for the non-medical use of prescription opioids. These consumption cultures create “misuse circuits”, leading to the emergence of “informal governing images” triggered by threats from formal controls.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000This paper, therefore, concludes that pharmaceutical industries should also add colourings to TM and codeine just like they did in rophinol to discourage the non-medical use of prescription opioids among young people in Nigeria.\u0000\u0000\u0000Social implications\u0000This paper concludes that rather than branding and packaging in such a way that concealability is difficult for high-risk users as the best way to discourage the non-medical consumption of prescription opioids in Nigeria, the focus should be on addressing youth poverty and unemployment and improving access to treatment for drug use disorders, instead of calling for more enforcement-based measures.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000This is an original research.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"59 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-08-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"85321156","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-08-07DOI: 10.1108/dhs-05-2023-0019
I. Walmsley
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to assess the impact of the recommendation to replace identity-first language with person-first language on people who self-identify as recovering addicts as part of a recovery programme. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) will be used to illustrate the contextualised nature of the recovering addict identity. Design/methodology/approach To demonstrate the value of the recovering addict identity and social relations in NA, this paper draws on Axel Honneth’s theory of mutual recognition and self-formation. Findings Person-first language overlooks the significance of identity-first language to people in 12-step recovery. This oversight is linked to the logic of stigma reduction which excludes all identity-first language by association rather than assessing the impact of such terms on a case-by-case basis. Honneth’s theory is used to show how the recovering addict identity facilitates self-confidence and self-esteem through relations of mutual recognition in NA. Research limitations/implications The argument excludes people who identify as recovering addicts, but do not attend 12-step groups. Further research would be needed to understand how the recommendation to use person-first language instead of identity-first language impacts upon other recovery communities and pathways. Practical implications The recommendation to replace identity-first language with person-first language might result in 12-step fellowships becoming marginalised within the broader academic and policy and practice arena. Language preferences can become a contentious issue when 12-step groups and their members enter the wider recovery arena where their preferred terminology is viewed as stigmatising and dehumanising. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first article to propose an alternative theoretical framework to stigma reduction for judging morally appropriate language in the alcohol and drugs field.
{"title":"Recognising the recovering addict with Honneth: an intervention into the stigmatising language debate in the alcohol and other drugs field","authors":"I. Walmsley","doi":"10.1108/dhs-05-2023-0019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-05-2023-0019","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this paper is to assess the impact of the recommendation to replace identity-first language with person-first language on people who self-identify as recovering addicts as part of a recovery programme. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) will be used to illustrate the contextualised nature of the recovering addict identity.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000To demonstrate the value of the recovering addict identity and social relations in NA, this paper draws on Axel Honneth’s theory of mutual recognition and self-formation.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Person-first language overlooks the significance of identity-first language to people in 12-step recovery. This oversight is linked to the logic of stigma reduction which excludes all identity-first language by association rather than assessing the impact of such terms on a case-by-case basis. Honneth’s theory is used to show how the recovering addict identity facilitates self-confidence and self-esteem through relations of mutual recognition in NA.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000The argument excludes people who identify as recovering addicts, but do not attend 12-step groups. Further research would be needed to understand how the recommendation to use person-first language instead of identity-first language impacts upon other recovery communities and pathways.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000The recommendation to replace identity-first language with person-first language might result in 12-step fellowships becoming marginalised within the broader academic and policy and practice arena. Language preferences can become a contentious issue when 12-step groups and their members enter the wider recovery arena where their preferred terminology is viewed as stigmatising and dehumanising.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first article to propose an alternative theoretical framework to stigma reduction for judging morally appropriate language in the alcohol and drugs field.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"30 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-08-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"82028928","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-14DOI: 10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0045
S. Otu, M. U. Nnam, M. J. Eteng, Ijeoma Mercy Amugo, B. M. Idowu
Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the politics, political economy, and fallout of hawkish regulatory policy on prescription drugs in Nigeria. Hawkish regulatory policy on prescription drug in Nigeria, such as opioid analgesics, is a very complex and multifaceted one, which usually involves the interplay of many factors and parties. Design/methodology/approach Policy manuals, official government gazettes (legislations, regulations, Acts and decrees), academic literature and a direct ethnographic observation of events surrounding the regulation of prescription drugs were reviewed and engaged. Findings The results revealed that Nigerian and global political economy and politics interface to define the direction of the new restrictive opioid policy, with resultant friction between prohibition and consumption. The reviews showed that the overarching “get-tough” and “repressive” policy are not necessarily founded on empirical evidence of an increase in prescription drug sales or use, but more as a product of the interplay of both internal and external politics and the prevailing socioeconomic order. Practical implications Instead of borrowing extensively from or being influenced by repressive Western drug laws and perspectives, Nigerian policymakers on prescription opioids should take control of the process by drawing up a home-grown policy that is less intrusive and punitive in nature for better outcomes. A mental sea change is required to understand the intrigues of Western power in Nigeria’s politics and political economy to avoid the continuous symptomatic failure of drug policy. Originality/value The politics and economic influence of the United Nations, USA and Western powers, as well as the axiom of moral panic of prescription drugs scares within the Nigerian environment, are particularly significant in the making of the emerging hawkish policy on prescription drugs in Nigeria.
{"title":"Beyond evidence and reality: the politics, political economy and fallout of hawkish regulatory policy on prescription drugs in Nigeria","authors":"S. Otu, M. U. Nnam, M. J. Eteng, Ijeoma Mercy Amugo, B. M. Idowu","doi":"10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0045","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0045","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this study is to examine the politics, political economy, and fallout of hawkish regulatory policy on prescription drugs in Nigeria. Hawkish regulatory policy on prescription drug in Nigeria, such as opioid analgesics, is a very complex and multifaceted one, which usually involves the interplay of many factors and parties.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000Policy manuals, official government gazettes (legislations, regulations, Acts and decrees), academic literature and a direct ethnographic observation of events surrounding the regulation of prescription drugs were reviewed and engaged.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000The results revealed that Nigerian and global political economy and politics interface to define the direction of the new restrictive opioid policy, with resultant friction between prohibition and consumption. The reviews showed that the overarching “get-tough” and “repressive” policy are not necessarily founded on empirical evidence of an increase in prescription drug sales or use, but more as a product of the interplay of both internal and external politics and the prevailing socioeconomic order.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000Instead of borrowing extensively from or being influenced by repressive Western drug laws and perspectives, Nigerian policymakers on prescription opioids should take control of the process by drawing up a home-grown policy that is less intrusive and punitive in nature for better outcomes. A mental sea change is required to understand the intrigues of Western power in Nigeria’s politics and political economy to avoid the continuous symptomatic failure of drug policy.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000The politics and economic influence of the United Nations, USA and Western powers, as well as the axiom of moral panic of prescription drugs scares within the Nigerian environment, are particularly significant in the making of the emerging hawkish policy on prescription drugs in Nigeria.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"23 3 Suppl 7 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"77998764","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-13DOI: 10.1108/dhs-03-2023-0011
Ini Dele-Adedeji, Lala Ireland, Gernot Klantschnig
Purpose This paper aims to examine the friction that has surfaced since the adoption of policy measures restricting access to tramadol, a synthetic opioid, in Nigeria in 2018. Our analysis reveals how non-licensed pharmaceutical actors, who have played an integral part in the supply chain, have been criminalised for activities that have previously been sanctioned by the state. This criminalisation has given rise to friction between what is perceived as illegal by the state and what is acceptable for other actors in the tramadol economy. Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on more than 20 in-depth interviews with illicit actors and regulators in the tramadol economy in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial centre, and a review of key policy documents, media reports and popular cultural outputs on tramadol. Findings The paper highlights the effects of prohibitionist policies and the voices of criminalised actors to provide a contextual view of the Nigerian tramadol economy. Relying on the concepts of friction and quasilegality, we show how social relationships have become the main backbone of the illicit tramadol economy and how they enable participants to resolve the pervasive friction between illegality and social acceptability of tramadol. Originality/value This paper provides an inside understanding of the nuances of the rarely studied illicit trade in synthetic opioids and how restrictive policies that are seemingly not well thought through have created friction in the Nigerian context.
{"title":"Resolving friction in the tramadol economy in Nigeria","authors":"Ini Dele-Adedeji, Lala Ireland, Gernot Klantschnig","doi":"10.1108/dhs-03-2023-0011","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-03-2023-0011","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000This paper aims to examine the friction that has surfaced since the adoption of policy measures restricting access to tramadol, a synthetic opioid, in Nigeria in 2018. Our analysis reveals how non-licensed pharmaceutical actors, who have played an integral part in the supply chain, have been criminalised for activities that have previously been sanctioned by the state. This criminalisation has given rise to friction between what is perceived as illegal by the state and what is acceptable for other actors in the tramadol economy.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000The paper is based on more than 20 in-depth interviews with illicit actors and regulators in the tramadol economy in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial centre, and a review of key policy documents, media reports and popular cultural outputs on tramadol.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000The paper highlights the effects of prohibitionist policies and the voices of criminalised actors to provide a contextual view of the Nigerian tramadol economy. Relying on the concepts of friction and quasilegality, we show how social relationships have become the main backbone of the illicit tramadol economy and how they enable participants to resolve the pervasive friction between illegality and social acceptability of tramadol.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000This paper provides an inside understanding of the nuances of the rarely studied illicit trade in synthetic opioids and how restrictive policies that are seemingly not well thought through have created friction in the Nigerian context.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"1 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"75674302","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-07-11DOI: 10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0044
C. E. Nwafor, Chukwuemeka Okoye, Nelson I. Nwankwo, Paschal Chukwuma Ugwu
Purpose This study aims to explore the dynamics involved in the non-medical use of tramadol among manual labourers in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach Using the phenomenological approach, we conducted in-depth interviews with forty (40) manual labourers (age: 19–36 years). These participants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques from two cities in Anambra state, Nigeria, and the data was analysed with thematic analysis. Findings The results revealed that most of the participants were introduced to tramadol use by their friends. They used tramadol for pain relief, euphoric feeling, energy for work and sexual performance. Unfortunately, most of them may have gradually become dependent on this drug to function well in life without knowing the possible medical and psychological implications. Research limitations/implications The sample choice may limit the generalization of the findings; however, the study indicates a need to improve working condition, access to healthcare and awareness of the negative effects of non-medical use of tramadol. Originality/value Non-medical use of tramadol may have started as an attempt to help self in performing the daily routine. This action can jeopardize an individual’s mental health and, at the extreme state, hinder performance of daily routine. Friends and the quality of information they provide play a significant role in the onset of this action. The strong point is that many people who are involved in the non-medical use of tramadol are unaware of the possible risks. Improving working conditions and access to healthcare for chronic pain could help reduce these risks.
{"title":"“It worked for my friend”: non-medical use of tramadol among manual labourers in Anambra state, Nigeria","authors":"C. E. Nwafor, Chukwuemeka Okoye, Nelson I. Nwankwo, Paschal Chukwuma Ugwu","doi":"10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0044","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-11-2022-0044","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000This study aims to explore the dynamics involved in the non-medical use of tramadol among manual labourers in Nigeria.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000Using the phenomenological approach, we conducted in-depth interviews with forty (40) manual labourers (age: 19–36 years). These participants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques from two cities in Anambra state, Nigeria, and the data was analysed with thematic analysis.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000The results revealed that most of the participants were introduced to tramadol use by their friends. They used tramadol for pain relief, euphoric feeling, energy for work and sexual performance. Unfortunately, most of them may have gradually become dependent on this drug to function well in life without knowing the possible medical and psychological implications.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000The sample choice may limit the generalization of the findings; however, the study indicates a need to improve working condition, access to healthcare and awareness of the negative effects of non-medical use of tramadol.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000Non-medical use of tramadol may have started as an attempt to help self in performing the daily routine. This action can jeopardize an individual’s mental health and, at the extreme state, hinder performance of daily routine. Friends and the quality of information they provide play a significant role in the onset of this action. The strong point is that many people who are involved in the non-medical use of tramadol are unaware of the possible risks. Improving working conditions and access to healthcare for chronic pain could help reduce these risks.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"109 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-07-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"77529738","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-06-20DOI: 10.1108/dhs-02-2023-0005
V. Nosa, Linda Palavi, M. Heather
Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the views from Pacific addiction service providers with the aim of exploring perceived barriers and solutions for Pacific substance and behavioural addiction services in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Design/methodology/approach One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight Pacific alcohol other drugs and gambling health professionals in New Zealand. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. A general inductive thematic analysis was then used to identify themes. Findings Pacific alcohol other drugs (AOD) services have adapted well to the COVID climate; stigma and time remain persistent barriers to access for clients. Pacific AOD services expressed concerns regarding their disconnect with primary health care and the need for collaboration and partnership. Pacific AOD models of care and workforce development would be encouraged, supported and provisioned with increased and stable funding within the sector. Research limitations/implications The lack of prioritisation and adequate funding that Pacific AOD services continue to face needs to be addressed. This will ensure that the expansion of Pacific AOD services is not only sustainable in regards to growing the Pacific AOD workforce but can also safeguard the responsiveness of the Pacific AOD sector to the changing demographics and increasing AOD needs of future Pacific populations in New Zealand. Practical implications Stigma, timing of AOD services and the disconnect between primary and secondary Pacific addictions continue to hinder accessibility to AOD services for Pacific people. The findings highlight that Pacific AOD services require a health system embedded in equity, operating to protect, foster, enhance Pacific models of addiction care and service delivery. Social implications The lack of prioritisation and adequate funding that Pacific AOD services continue to face needs to be addressed. This will ensure that the expansion of Pacific AOD services is not only sustainable in regards to growing the Pacific AOD workforce but can also safeguard the responsiveness of the Pacific AOD sector to the changing demographics and increasing AOD needs of future Pacific populations in New Zealand. Originality/value It has been over a decade since the last study identifying the effectiveness of Pacific AOD services. The findings highlight that Pacific AOD services require a health system embedded in equity, operating to protect, foster, enhance Pacific models of addiction care and service delivery. The lack of prioritisation and adequate funding that Pacific AOD services continue to face needs to be addressed. This will ensure that the expansion of Pacific AOD services is not only sustainable in regards to growing the Pacific AOD workforce but can also safeguard the responsiveness of the Pacific AOD sector to the changing demographics and increasing AOD needs of future Pacific populations in New Zealand.
{"title":"A Pacific addictions perspective: a qualitative study exploring barriers and solutions for Pacific substance and behavioural addictions services in Aotearoa, New Zealand","authors":"V. Nosa, Linda Palavi, M. Heather","doi":"10.1108/dhs-02-2023-0005","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-02-2023-0005","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this study is to examine the views from Pacific addiction service providers with the aim of exploring perceived barriers and solutions for Pacific substance and behavioural addiction services in Aotearoa, New Zealand.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000One-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight Pacific alcohol other drugs and gambling health professionals in New Zealand. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. A general inductive thematic analysis was then used to identify themes.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Pacific alcohol other drugs (AOD) services have adapted well to the COVID climate; stigma and time remain persistent barriers to access for clients. Pacific AOD services expressed concerns regarding their disconnect with primary health care and the need for collaboration and partnership. Pacific AOD models of care and workforce development would be encouraged, supported and provisioned with increased and stable funding within the sector.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000The lack of prioritisation and adequate funding that Pacific AOD services continue to face needs to be addressed. This will ensure that the expansion of Pacific AOD services is not only sustainable in regards to growing the Pacific AOD workforce but can also safeguard the responsiveness of the Pacific AOD sector to the changing demographics and increasing AOD needs of future Pacific populations in New Zealand.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000Stigma, timing of AOD services and the disconnect between primary and secondary Pacific addictions continue to hinder accessibility to AOD services for Pacific people. The findings highlight that Pacific AOD services require a health system embedded in equity, operating to protect, foster, enhance Pacific models of addiction care and service delivery.\u0000\u0000\u0000Social implications\u0000The lack of prioritisation and adequate funding that Pacific AOD services continue to face needs to be addressed. This will ensure that the expansion of Pacific AOD services is not only sustainable in regards to growing the Pacific AOD workforce but can also safeguard the responsiveness of the Pacific AOD sector to the changing demographics and increasing AOD needs of future Pacific populations in New Zealand.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000It has been over a decade since the last study identifying the effectiveness of Pacific AOD services. The findings highlight that Pacific AOD services require a health system embedded in equity, operating to protect, foster, enhance Pacific models of addiction care and service delivery. The lack of prioritisation and adequate funding that Pacific AOD services continue to face needs to be addressed. This will ensure that the expansion of Pacific AOD services is not only sustainable in regards to growing the Pacific AOD workforce but can also safeguard the responsiveness of the Pacific AOD sector to the changing demographics and increasing AOD needs of future Pacific populations in New Zealand.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"103 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-06-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"84658141","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-06-13DOI: 10.1108/dhs-09-2022-0033
Tanisha Wright-Brown, Sandy Brennan, Michael Blackwood, Jennifer R. Donnan
Purpose Almost five years after legalization, the unlicensed cannabis market is still thriving in Canada, and legacy cannabis retailers continue to face barriers to legal market entry. This study aims to shed light on these challenges and offer policy recommendations supporting legacy retailers and the government’s goals of enhancing public safety and displacing the unlicensed market. Design/methodology/approach This study reviewed online sources, including the media, gray literature, government, and other policy and legal websites, to identify legacy retailers’ challenges to entering the Canadian ecosystem since legalization and policy approaches of legalized jurisdictions with similar issues. Findings Legacy retailers face financial, legal and social barriers to entering the legal market. The Canadian government should focus on lowering and eliminating these barriers by developing programs that reduce financial risks and required capital, facilitate partnership programs and accelerators, provide innovative options that reduce overhead expenses, encourage pooled ownership to support small businesses, prioritize market entry for equity-deserving individuals and enable automatic expungement. A description of programs that have been implemented in other jurisdictions to address similar barriers is provided. Practical implications The policy recommendations in this paper would enable increased entrepreneurship and employment in a growing sector. While the tax revenue earned from the new market entrants may not be enough to support all the recommended policy initiatives, it could be reinvested to fund some of them creating sustainable growth opportunities. Originality/value The paper provides practical, timely policy recommendations on expanding the legal cannabis market in Canada and addressing unintended negative consequences of current policies.
{"title":"What a legacy: a call to action to facilitate entry into the licensed cannabis market in Canada","authors":"Tanisha Wright-Brown, Sandy Brennan, Michael Blackwood, Jennifer R. Donnan","doi":"10.1108/dhs-09-2022-0033","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-09-2022-0033","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000Almost five years after legalization, the unlicensed cannabis market is still thriving in Canada, and legacy cannabis retailers continue to face barriers to legal market entry. This study aims to shed light on these challenges and offer policy recommendations supporting legacy retailers and the government’s goals of enhancing public safety and displacing the unlicensed market.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000This study reviewed online sources, including the media, gray literature, government, and other policy and legal websites, to identify legacy retailers’ challenges to entering the Canadian ecosystem since legalization and policy approaches of legalized jurisdictions with similar issues.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Legacy retailers face financial, legal and social barriers to entering the legal market. The Canadian government should focus on lowering and eliminating these barriers by developing programs that reduce financial risks and required capital, facilitate partnership programs and accelerators, provide innovative options that reduce overhead expenses, encourage pooled ownership to support small businesses, prioritize market entry for equity-deserving individuals and enable automatic expungement. A description of programs that have been implemented in other jurisdictions to address similar barriers is provided.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000The policy recommendations in this paper would enable increased entrepreneurship and employment in a growing sector. While the tax revenue earned from the new market entrants may not be enough to support all the recommended policy initiatives, it could be reinvested to fund some of them creating sustainable growth opportunities.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000The paper provides practical, timely policy recommendations on expanding the legal cannabis market in Canada and addressing unintended negative consequences of current policies.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"22 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-06-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"75124593","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-06-06DOI: 10.1108/dhs-12-2022-0048
Cheneal Puljević, Amelia Cossart, Emma L. Davies, Monica J. Barratt, Larissa J. Maier, Marie Jauffret-Roustide, Adam R. Winstock, Jason A. Ferris
Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic likely impacted cannabis distribution, access and usage worldwide. This study aims to describe self-reported changes in cannabis use and related outcomes following COVID-19-related restrictions among an international sample of people who use drugs. Design/methodology/approach Using data from the Global Drug Survey COVID-19 Special Edition, the authors identified 20,417 respondents from 13 countries who reported whether the number of THC-containing cannabis usage days changed compared with February 2020 (before COVID-19 restrictions). Using descriptive statistics and a multinomial multivariable logistic regression, the authors investigated the impact of changes in cannabis use on respondents’ mental health, physical health, relationships, finances, work/study performance and cannabis-related pleasure/enjoyment. Findings Similar proportions of respondents reported that their cannabis use had stayed the same (38.2%) or increased (38.3%) compared with February 2020, while 21.9% of respondents reported a decrease. The most common reason for increased use was having more time (68.4%), while decreased use was associated with having less contact with people they use cannabis with (58.4%). The likelihood of reporting worse mental and physical health, finances, and work/study performance following COVID-19 restrictions was highest among those who reported increased cannabis use. Research limitations/implications These findings provide a unique understanding of the short-term international impact of initial COVID-19 restrictions on cannabis use, and highlight the need for policy to address the ongoing and improved provision of evidence-based mental health and other support for people who frequently use cannabis. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the world’s largest international study exploring the impacts of these changes in cannabis use following initial COVID-19 restrictions on individuals’ mental health, physical health, relationships, finances, work/study performance and cannabis-related pleasure. This study is also unique in comparing these changes across multiple continents.
{"title":"Shifts in cannabis use at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic among Global Drug Survey respondents from 13 countries","authors":"Cheneal Puljević, Amelia Cossart, Emma L. Davies, Monica J. Barratt, Larissa J. Maier, Marie Jauffret-Roustide, Adam R. Winstock, Jason A. Ferris","doi":"10.1108/dhs-12-2022-0048","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-12-2022-0048","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic likely impacted cannabis distribution, access and usage worldwide. This study aims to describe self-reported changes in cannabis use and related outcomes following COVID-19-related restrictions among an international sample of people who use drugs. Design/methodology/approach Using data from the Global Drug Survey COVID-19 Special Edition, the authors identified 20,417 respondents from 13 countries who reported whether the number of THC-containing cannabis usage days changed compared with February 2020 (before COVID-19 restrictions). Using descriptive statistics and a multinomial multivariable logistic regression, the authors investigated the impact of changes in cannabis use on respondents’ mental health, physical health, relationships, finances, work/study performance and cannabis-related pleasure/enjoyment. Findings Similar proportions of respondents reported that their cannabis use had stayed the same (38.2%) or increased (38.3%) compared with February 2020, while 21.9% of respondents reported a decrease. The most common reason for increased use was having more time (68.4%), while decreased use was associated with having less contact with people they use cannabis with (58.4%). The likelihood of reporting worse mental and physical health, finances, and work/study performance following COVID-19 restrictions was highest among those who reported increased cannabis use. Research limitations/implications These findings provide a unique understanding of the short-term international impact of initial COVID-19 restrictions on cannabis use, and highlight the need for policy to address the ongoing and improved provision of evidence-based mental health and other support for people who frequently use cannabis. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the world’s largest international study exploring the impacts of these changes in cannabis use following initial COVID-19 restrictions on individuals’ mental health, physical health, relationships, finances, work/study performance and cannabis-related pleasure. This study is also unique in comparing these changes across multiple continents.","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"18 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-06-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"135493339","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-29DOI: 10.1108/dhs-12-2022-0051
Ediomo-ubong E. Nelson, O. Odeigah, Emeka W. Dumbili
Purpose The purpose of this study is to understand the complex interplay between illicit opioids trade and consumption practices and state policies that aim to reduce their misuse. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted an exploratory design. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 31 commercially oriented drug dealers in Uyo, Nigeria. The framework approach was used in data analyses, while “friction” provided the interpretive lens. Findings Accounts revealed public concerns over the misuse of tramadol and other opioids among young people and the associated health and social harms. These concerns provided support for enforcement-based approaches to prescription opioids control, including police raids on pharmacy stores. These measures did not curtail opioids supply and consumption. Instead, they constrained access to essential medicines for pain management, encouraged illegal markets and fuelled law enforcement corruption in the form of police complicity in illegal tramadol trade. Research limitations/implications The findings reveal the frictions of drug control in Nigeria, wherein enforcement-based approaches gained traction through public concerns about opioids misuse but also faced resistance due to the persistence of non-medical use and illegal supply channels made possible by law enforcement complicity. These indicate a need to prioritize approaches that seek to reduce illegal supply and misuse of opioids while ensuring availability of these medications for health-care needs. Originality/value The study is unique in its focus on the creative tension that exists between state control measures and local opioids supply and consumption practices.
{"title":"Tramadol regulation, illegal markets and consumption practices: exploring frictions of drug control in Nigeria","authors":"Ediomo-ubong E. Nelson, O. Odeigah, Emeka W. Dumbili","doi":"10.1108/dhs-12-2022-0051","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/dhs-12-2022-0051","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this study is to understand the complex interplay between illicit opioids trade and consumption practices and state policies that aim to reduce their misuse.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000The study adopted an exploratory design. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 31 commercially oriented drug dealers in Uyo, Nigeria. The framework approach was used in data analyses, while “friction” provided the interpretive lens.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Accounts revealed public concerns over the misuse of tramadol and other opioids among young people and the associated health and social harms. These concerns provided support for enforcement-based approaches to prescription opioids control, including police raids on pharmacy stores. These measures did not curtail opioids supply and consumption. Instead, they constrained access to essential medicines for pain management, encouraged illegal markets and fuelled law enforcement corruption in the form of police complicity in illegal tramadol trade.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000The findings reveal the frictions of drug control in Nigeria, wherein enforcement-based approaches gained traction through public concerns about opioids misuse but also faced resistance due to the persistence of non-medical use and illegal supply channels made possible by law enforcement complicity. These indicate a need to prioritize approaches that seek to reduce illegal supply and misuse of opioids while ensuring availability of these medications for health-care needs.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000The study is unique in its focus on the creative tension that exists between state control measures and local opioids supply and consumption practices.\u0000","PeriodicalId":72849,"journal":{"name":"Drugs, habits and social policy","volume":"31 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-05-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"84392045","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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