Depressive symptoms and determinants among people who inject drugs in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Background: People who inject drugs (PWID) are known to have higher rates of mental health disorders, particularly depression. Despite this, there is a lack of research on the prevalence of depression among PWID in Nigeria.Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms and their determinants among PWID.Setting: The study was conducted in Kaduna State, Northwest Nigeria where a needle and syringe programme (NSP) for PWID was recently initiated.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among PWID using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using structured interviews and digitalised questionnaires covering socio-demographics, depression symptoms (PHQ-9) and perceived social support (MSPSS).Results: A total of 525 participants were included in the study, with the majority being males (73.3%) aged 24–35 years (54.5%). The study revealed a high prevalence of depressive symptoms among PWID, with 47.4% reporting major symptoms. Predictors of depression identified among PWID included older age, female gender, divorce, unemployment, having primary education and moderate social support.Conclusion: The study underscored a concerning prevalence of depressive symptoms among PWID, notably linked to diverse sociodemographic factors, emphasising the need for holistic, context-specific mental healthcare approaches for this population.Contribution: This study contributes to the limited research on the mental health of PWID in Nigeria. It highlights the need for targeted mental health interventions that consider the unique sociodemographic characteristics of this population.