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Patterns of use and needs assessment of young adults using illicit drugs in Prague
Gažová, Nikola ; Mravčík, Viktor (advisor) ; Černíková, Tereza (referee)
Background: Understanding patterns of use and the needs of young adult users of illegal addictive substances presents a challenge primarily due to the hidden nature of this problem. Individuals engaging in problem drug use (PDU) may face severe health and social problems. Prague stands among regions with the highest prevalence of PDU, yet low-threshold addiction services note an aging trend among their clients. Establishing contact with this group has the potential to reduce consequences and encourage less risky usage patterns, while simultaneously facilitating entry into further addiction care services. Aim: The aim of the research was to analyze the needs of the young adult substance users in Prague, who fit the definition of PDU according to EMCDDA, with a focus on identifying patterns of usage and needs in relation to low-threshold addiction services. The research results were intended to serve as an initiative for improving the services provided. Methods: A study employing the Rapid Assessment and Response (RAR) method was conducted. The research sample was obtained through purposive sampling and comprised 6 young adults in PDU in Prague (3 in contact with services, 3 from the hidden population), along with 18 key informants (peer workers, experts from low-threshold and other social services,...
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Coping Strategies of Employees of Low-threshold Services for Drug Users
Kovářová, Tereza ; Janíková, Barbara (advisor) ; Barták, Miroslav (referee)
Background: Low-threshold addiction facilities are in contact primarily with active drug users and deal with a very wide range of problems and situations, including those in crisis. Coping strategies can be crucial in preventing the burnout syndrome, which puts people in the helping professions, including workers in low-threshold addiction facilities, at risk. There is no published study in our territory that would aim at coping strategies on above mentioned target group. Aims: To map coping strategies of workers in low-threshold addiction facilities and to describe possible differences in these strategies between men and women. Methods: This is an online questionnaire study among employees of all low-threshold addiction facilities in the Czech Republic. A sample research group consisted of all employees of these facilities who work here for at least 20 hours a week. Respondents were acquired by the method of self-selection. A mixed research design was chosen. Data was obtained through a standardized Stress Management Strategy questionnaire 78 and an open-ended question focusing on what helps respondents reduce stress and tension. The structured questionnaire was converted into electronic form and sent to respondents through individual low-threshold services for drug users. The obtained data were...
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