Identification of psychoactive substance use among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia

Abstract

The objective was to identify the consumption of substances among people diagnosed with schizophrenia undergoing treatment and to verify its association with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Questionnaires were applied in 45 patients. Substances most commonly consumed throughout life: 67% (n = 30) tobacco; 73% (n = 33) alcohol; 22% (n = 10) marijuana. 62% of the sample made problematic use of at least one drug. There was an association between problematic drug use and financial satisfaction, impulsiveness and experiences of discrimination. Problematic use of tobacco was associated with street living. Knowing characteristics related to the use of drugs among people in treatment for schizophrenia helps to propose strategies of care directed to this population.