The relationship of the perception of social support with the possibility of suicide and the level of depression in alcohol and drug addiction

In this quantitative and cross-sectional study, the relationships between the perception of social support and the likelihood of suicide and depression levels of alcohol and substance addicts were examined. Following this, the social support, suicide probability and depression level scale results perceived by alcohol and substance addicts according to sociodemographic variables were examined. The study was carried out at the AMATEM (Alcohol and Substance Addiction Treatment Center) clinic affiliated with Toros State Hospital in Mersin province. Interviews were conducted with 240 male individuals receiving outpatient treatment. The ages of the participants ranged from 18 to 67. Personal Information Form, Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, Beck Depression Scale and Suicide Probability Scale were administered to the interviewed individuals. In the study, tobacco (cigarette) was excluded from the substance definition. Participants were selected by simple random sampling method and the research was conducted with individuals who gave consent. The data obtained from the study were collected at the end of a 3-month study and analyzed with the SPSS-25 package program. According to the findings, a moderately negative and significant relationship was found between the participants' perceived social support and their depression levels, and between their perceived social support and their likelihood of suicide. Looking at the results, it was seen that when the social support perceived by alcohol and substance addicts increased, their depression levels and likelihood of suicide decreased. When the scale results are examined according to sociodemographic data; There is a significant difference in the level of depression depending on the variables of employment status and suicide attempt. The probability of suicide varies significantly according to variables such as employment status, marital status, having children and suicide history. Perceived social support also shows significant differences according to criminal record and education level. In the results of working; It is recommended that studies be carried out to increase the social support perceived by individuals in order to reduce the possibility of suicide and depression, which are considered important risk factors in addicted individuals.