Comparison of Use, Barriers, Treatment Seeking, and Mental Health Problems in Residential Methamphetamine Users

Introduction: methamphetamine use has increased in Aguascalientes between the years 2013 to 2020, thus the government has implemented the Reintegra Program with the purpose to begin voluntary rehabilitation instead of taking the usual legal path for the individuals involved with the justice system for minor offenses. Objective: to compare the consumption history, associated problems, use of health services, barriers to access treatment, as well as depression and suicidal behavior in methamphetamine users who entered residential treatment by the Reintegra Program with those who began undergoing treatment due to other circumstances. Method: the study was descriptive, comparative and cross-sectional with 865 individuals in residential centers. Participants were categorized into the Reintegra Group (n = 453) and Not-Reintegra Group (n = 412). Data were collected using a questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed, including logistic regression analyses. Results: Reintegra Group participants showed higher prevalence of using habits, considered their use less dangerous, reported fewer associated problems with meth use, expressed less intention to quit using meth and sought help in fewer places when compared to the Not-Reintegra Group. Logistic regression identified differences between the groups, related to the total number of substances used, number of places where they sought help, and severity of problems related to meth use. Discussion and conclusions: findings highlight differences between participants based on their enrollment in the program, displaying unique challenges and underscoring the importance of personalized interventions to enhance their effectiveness.