Understanding substance use and affective symptoms in late adolescents in an urban context: A network approach

Background. Urbanization is a global phenomenon characterized by the rapid growth of cities and the increasing population density in urban areas. Half of the global population lives in urban cities and as urbanization continues to accelerate, it brings about numerous challenges, including substance use and mental health concerns for urban citizens. The potential detrimental effects of urban living on substance use, substance use disorders, and mental health have been documented separately in various studies, highlighting the need to understand the complex interactions between symptoms and urban factors. Previous findings suggest that (late) adolescents living in urban areas are more likely to suffer from symptoms indicating substance use, depression and anxiety and exhibit more often hostile behaviour. In this study, we aim to explore reciprocal paths between symptoms of common mental health disorders (substance use, depression, anxiety), urban hassles, and the urban-neighbourhood context. 

Methods. We used data from the Amsterdam Born Children and Development study measured at age 17-18 years (N=1682; 56.6% females; Mage = 17.44, SD = 0.36). Self-reported alcohol use, drunkeness, tobacco use, cannabis use, hard drugs, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and urban hassles were assessed and included in the network. Next to subjective assessments, objectively measured urban-neighbourhood data was derived from the Geoscience and Health Cohort Consortium (GECCO), specifically neighbourhood poverty, socioeconomic status (SES), liveability, and urbanization degree. Undirected networks will be estimated while distinguishing between participants who still live in Amsterdam (n = 842) and those who do not (n = 840). Age, sex, and educational level will be included as covariates.  

OSF study preregistration: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/PBRS5. 

Results. Currently the data analysis are being conducted and will be ready in February 2024. 

Conclusions. The findings will enhance our understanding of the complex interplay between urban factors, substance use, and symptoms of depression and anxiety.