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Abstract
Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the lived experience of drug use and addiction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We analyzed 100 online forum (Reddit) posts discussing personal experiences of people who use drugs (PWUD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Seven themes were identified from the data: (i) Access to Illicit Drugs, (ii) Access and Adherence to Prescription Drugs and Treatment, (iii) Pandemic Specific Stressors, (iv) Boredom and Lack of Responsibility, (v) Disruption to Coping Strategies, (vi) Limited Formal Support, and (vii) Lockdown as an Opportunity. Conclusions: COVID-19 has had a considerable impact on PWUD, affecting their access to illicit and prescription drugs and exposing them to triggers such as stress and boredom. Though the pandemic negatively impacted on existing coping strategies and access to formal support services, a minority of PWUD viewed lockdown and quarantine as an opportunity to lower or stop their substance use.