Distress Tolerance and Hopelessness as Predictors of Adherence to Treatment among Recovering Drug Users in Recovering Drug Users in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Drug addiction remains a significant public health concern worldwide, with treatment adherence posing a formidable challenge among recovering drug users. However, several factors such as low distress tolerance and low level of hopelessness are significant issues related to adherence to treatment among recovering drug users. This study aimed to investigate Distress Tolerance and Hopelessness as Predictors of Adherence to Treatment among Recovering Drug Users in Recovering Drug Users in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. A total of 208 participants (139 males and 69 females), aged 18–42 years (M = 30.2), were purposively selected. They completed the Treatment Adherence Scale (MARS-8), Distress Tolerance Scale and Beck Hopelessness Scale. Data was analyzed using multiple regression statistics. Results revealed that distress tolerance significantly predict adherence to treatment among recovering drug users. Hopelessness significantly predict adherence to treatment among recovering drug users. Additionally, distress tolerance and hopelessness jointly predict adherence to treatment among recovering drug users. Implications of the study and conclusions as well as suggestions for further study were made in line with the findings of this study. It was recommended that drug use patients and the general public should be psycho-educated to maintain high tolerance about their health as no-body can be excluded from negative health outcomes without intentionally adhering to a treatment plan. More health facilities and rehabilitation centers should be created in Uyo with well-equipped facilities to aid and improve the treatment of drug users.