PREVALENCE AND DANGERS OF SUBSTANCE USE AMONG YOUTHS IN GOMBE STATE, NORTHEAST NIGERIA: A COMMUNITY-BASED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

ABSTRACT Substance use represents a significant public health challenge, contributing to increased mental health disorders within communities. This study assessed the prevalence and associated dangers of substance use among youths in Todi Ward, Billiri Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria. A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, with a sample size of 213 youths aged 15–35 years, selected via systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS version 25.0. Results indicated a high prevalence (95.5%) of substance use, with alcohol being the most commonly used substance (65%). Primary reasons for use included social occasions (59.5%) and peer pressure (18%). Substance use was reported to significantly affect mental health (86%), with memory impairment (45%) and depression (37%) as major consequences. Socio-culturally, substance use led to school dropout (34.5%) and loss of respect (28%). The study concludes that substance use is widespread among youths in Todi Ward, with notable mental health and socio-cultural repercussions. Recommendations include strengthened law enforcement, parental vigilance, youth-friendly counselling services, and community-based educational programs.