Abstract
Background: Substance-induced psychosis is a growing concern in South Africa. An increasing number of young people are involved in substance abuse and alcohol consumption. Substance abuse significantly contributes to various health conditions, including mental health issues. The aim of this retrospective investigation is to assess the prevalence of psychosis in people with a history of substance use and determine the different substance categories commonly used and investigate different demographic factors related to drug abuse.
Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional study was carried out to analyse existing medical records of patients diagnosed with psychosis at nine public hospitals in Capricorn District, Limpopo. The study analysed 187 patient records that satisfied the requirements for inclusion, selected from all admissions received by the district mental health office from nine hospitals in the Capricorn District of Limpopo, between August 1, and October 31, 2024.
Results: The study revealed that substance abuse is common among psychotic hospital admissions in the area. Out of the total population (N=187) reviewed medical records of the patients who were admitted with psychotic symptoms at the nine hospitals of Capricorn District, the most affected are the 25-34 years age group at 58 while other age groups are lesser, 157 are single, 157 are unemployed and 119 are males. The study showed that psychotic signs and symptoms were more prevalent 106 (56.7%) among hospital admissions in Capricorn District over a three-month period August to October 2024. The high prevalence observed can be attributed to the frequent use of substances that cause psychosis.
Conclusion: The results show that there is a necessity for improved mental health interventions in both primary healthcare (PHC) and public hospitals in the Capricorn District, Limpopo. The district’s mental health problems can be addressed with the help of improved mental health facilities, more mental health screening, and substance abuse assessments.