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Abstract
Aims: Data from a national longitudinal study of drug users entering treatment in Scotland are used to undertake an exploratory investigation of how heroin users like to spend their spare time. Specific aims are to explore heroin users’ self-reported interests at two time points; their continuity of interests over time; and demographic and behavioural factors associated with having at least one non-drug pastime.
Methods: 606 heroin users (70% males; 30% females) were interviewed using structured questionnaires at treatment entry and again 33 months later. Univariate analyses were undertaken using chi-square tests and independent t-tests. Multivariate analyses were undertaken using stepwise logistic regression.
Findings: 359 respondents (59%) reported at least one leisure interest at treatment entry and 521 (86%) reported at least one leisure interest 33 months later. Sport was the most common type of interest reported, but fifteen other hobby categories were identified. Many respondents reported multiple interests and 214 reported at least one same interest at both time points. The most consistent variables associated with having a spare time interest were being male and sleeping well.
Conclusions: The study provides further evidence that many problem drug users participate in ordinary daily activities. Enjoying these is a positive aspect of everyday life and a behavioural pattern that should be supported and encouraged by service providers whenever possible.