Online approach and characteristics of the hidden population with substance use disorder that doesn’t reach treatment

Friday, 25 October, 2024 - 10:50 to 12:20

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to reflect upon issues regarding an online approach to the hidden population of adults with problematic drug use in Greece. The aim of the study is to investigate the profile of this population and compare with the profile of people who get in touch with Counseling Centers of addiction treatment programs.
The study was carried out using the online, anonymous and self-administered questionnaire DUDIT, on the website www.drughelp.eu of Pompidou Group. A Facebook page was created in order to attract participants that are part of the hidden population of adult drug users,
which was then promoted on the platform through a special campaign. As a result, 687 DUDIT questionnaires were filled and collected. The study was conducted using quantitative research methods.
The comparison of data collected from the anonymous online questionnaires to the data provided by KETHEA, the largest rehabilitation and social reintegration network in Greece, showed a significantly higher percentage of women and young people among people who do problematic drug use, when compared to the percentage of women and young people that show up at Counseling Centers.  Most participants of this online study stated that they mainly use cannabis. The findings also confirmed that a vast majority of people who use cannabis rarely contact to Counseling Centers.
The anonymity of the questionnaire offered in an online environment, motivated and facilitated the participation of people who use drugs, to feel free to share more detailed and personal information regarding their drug use. A significant difference was profound when comparing the characteristics of individuals that carried out the anonymous DUDIT questionnaire, with the characteristics of individuals that have approached Counseling Centers. There are several issues that need to be explored in order to have a better understanding of the reasons that this hidden population does not approach Counseling Centers. As the paper suggests, the internet can prove to be a valuable tool in this effort.
 

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R5B 25 1050 3 Ilias Paraskevopoulos.pdf3.21 MBDownload

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