Help-Seeking for Illicit Drug Use in Adolescents: A Qualitative Study From India

Illicit drug use is a growing concern in India, with a treatment gap of 73%. Explanatory models can offer valuable insights into patients’ understanding of their condition and inform help-seeking and treatment strategies. This study aims to develop an explanatory model to identify barriers and facilitators for help-seeking, desired resources, and treatment strategies among adolescents struggling with illicit substance misuse. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 adolescents seeking treatment for drug use and 25 healthcare providers across three Indian sites. Thematic analysis revealed barriers to help-seeking, such as stigma, lack of awareness, and financial constraints. Family awareness was crucial for recovery, and adolescents sought personalized, comprehensive treatment. Healthcare providers emphasized the need for more government funding and flexible treatment options. These findings provide valuable insights into help-seeking behaviors and treatment preferences, which could enhance treatment engagement and outcomes for adolescents with drug use disorders.