Substance use and substance use disorders in relation to COVID-19: qualitative experiences of people who use drugs in Jordan

Background
Monitoring substance use and Substance Use Disorders (SUD) during global pandemics is essential, as individuals who engage in such activities may be at greater risk for infections as well as economic and social complications. This study aimed to describe the impact of COVID-19 on substance use and SUD, any changes that occurred in patterns of use, and services provided, the main challenges faced and if and how they had been overcome.

Methods
A qualitative study consisting of face-to-face semi-structured interviews with a sample of SUD patients from 3 main addiction treatment centers in Jordan. Recruitment stopped once data saturation was reached. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo-R1 software, and thematic analysis was undertaken.

Results
A total of 17 individuals were interviewed (male, aged 19–52 years). Five key themes emerged from a narrative analysis: Impact of COVID-19 on the availability of substances, the pattern of use, social life and its relation to SUD, impact on tobacco smoking, and finally on the user’s health, awareness and hygienic measures.

Conclusions
This study provided in-depth information to inform, support, and customize the design of interventions to mitigate the negative effects of substance use and SUD-related outcomes in a rapidly changing pandemic.