Hazardous Substance Use Among Refugees in Shared Accommodations

Abstract: Refugees are vulnerable to hazardous substance use. Owing to their experiences of flight, they are at special risk of trauma and may use substances to cope. However, little is known about substance use among refugees. This study analyzed refugees’ living conditions and substance use in shared accommodations in Germany, using an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design. Qualitative data from interviews were assessed through content analysis, and quantitative data from a cross-sectional survey were examined using bivariate correlations and multivariate logistic regressions. The results, merged into a joint display, reveal that refugees living in shared accommodations were exposed to various risk factors for substance use. Predictors identified for hazardous substance use were suicidal plans, substance use due to flight, and increased duration of residence in shared accommodations. Evidence-based prevention and intervention programs that focus on refugees’ psychosocial situations and possible suicidality are needed.