People Who Use Nyaope Contribute to Depression Symptoms in their Communities
Author(s): Vukile Msizi Ngema1*, Kebogile Elizabeth Mokwena2, Khomotso Maaga3, Oria Ramatsui4, Machaka Ravhengani
Abstract
Nyaope is a “novel psychoactive” substance commonly used in many communities in South Africa. This drug is extremely addictive with severe withdrawal symptoms. The study aimed at screening for depression symptoms among communities within which people who use nyaope reside in six townships within Tshwane City. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was adopted, and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) was used to screen for depression symptoms. A quantitative questionnaire was also used to collect socio-demographic data from 422 respondents. STATA version 14 was used to analyse data from 204 males and 217 females aged between 18 and 45, with a mean of 34.14. The majority (58.77%, n=248) tested positive for depression symptoms. Chi-square and logistic regression analysis results revealed that respondents living where there is a high number of nyaoepe users are experiencing severe depression symptoms. The study concluded that the depression symptoms in the communities living within the vicinity of nyaope users are experiencing mild, moderate and severe depression symptoms.