Methamphetamine Crisis in Iraq: Motivation of Recovery, Barriers of Treatment, and Mental Health Comorbidities

Abstract

Methamphetamine use in Iraq is a growing concern and a complex issue that is associated with social, physical, and mental health problems. This study aimed to measure levels of motivation for recovery, barriers of treatment, and associated mental health comorbidities in clients with methamphetamine addiction, as well as determining the relationship between these variables. A descriptive correlational   design using a non-probability sampling technique (convenience sampling) of consenting 257 methamphetamine addicts. The study was conducted in Thi-Qar Province, Al-Hayat Center for Recovery and Addiction Recovery Center and data were collected using six parts questionnaire, sociodemographic, health-related, the severity of dependence scale, motivation and readiness for substance abuse treatment scale, barriers to retention scale, and Arabic DASS 21scale. Severity of addiction among participants ranged between moderate to severe, they had moderate to high motivation level for recovery from substance. Participants experience moderate to severe barriers to treatment reveals. Most of participants experience severe level of depression, anxiety, and stress. Significant relationships are found between motivation of recovery, barriers of treatment, and mental health comorbidities. Despite those participants reported moderate to high level of motivation of recovery from substance, they have experienced various types of barriers to treatment that inhibit their ability change or continue in the treatment process, which also makes them at higher risk for mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and stress.