Substance use-related factors and psychosocial characteristics among Turkish adults with early- and late-onset substance use disorder

Abstract

The onset of substance use is a strong predictor of substance use disorders and related problems. This study examined the differences between early- and late-onset substance use in personality and substance use characteristics, traumatic experiences, and social support with a sample of 100 Turkish adults with substance use disorders. Early onset (<18 years) was associated with more traumatic experiences, increased risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and higher levels of depressive symptoms compared to late onset (≥18 years). Also, depressive symptoms, living, and working status were predictors of substance use onset. The study addresses the groups at risk of initiating substance use.

Keywords:

• Onset
• substance use disorders
• personality
• social support
• trauma

Declaration of interest

The authors declare that they have no financial or nonfinancial interests to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

The authors did not receive funds, grands, or other support from any organization for the submitted work.