Self-esteem, drug abuse and depression among the youth. a case study of Makerere University students

Abstract

This study delves into the relationships between drug abuse, self-esteem, and depression among psychology students at Makerere University in Uganda. The research aims to understand the connections between these variables and their implications for the youth. The World Health Organization's global status report on alcohol and substance abuse underscores the urgency of addressing this issue. The study's objectives involve assessing the connections between depression and self-esteem, depression and drug abuse, as well as drug abuse and self-esteem among students. The research takes a cross-sectional survey approach, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data is collected through questionnaires and interviews, with analyses conducted using statistical tools such as SPSS. The findings reveal significant positive correlations between depression and substance use, depression and self-esteem, and self-esteem and substance use. The results highlight the complex interplay between mental health and substance abuse among students and underscore the importance of comprehensive mental health support and substance abuse prevention programs. The study's recommendations advocate for policy changes, institutional support, and collaborative efforts to address these critical issues within the academic community and beyond.