Protective Factors, Drug use and Depression in Young Drug Users in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: The present examined relationship between protective factors, drug use and depression and meditational role of drug use in relationship between protective factors and depression. Methods: Sample comprised of 200 male drug users recruited from different hospitals and clinics in Lahore, Pakistan. The Communities that care youth Survey, Drug Abuse Questionnaire and Depression Scale were used for assessment. Findings: The results revealed that protective factors had negative relationship with drug use and depression while drug use had positive relationship with depression. Self controlling coping and interaction with pro social peer were the significant predictors of drug use and family rewards and drug use were the significant predictors of depression. Drug use mediated the relationship between protective factors and depression. Discussion: The findings have important implications for drug rehabilitation services, drug users, their families and communities who can play an important role as protective factors against drug use.