Methamphetamine addiction and its impact on adult clients at the National Institute of Mental Health, Sri Lanka: A descriptive cross-sectional study

Methamphetamine addiction poses a growing public health challenge in Sri Lanka, yet limited research explores its impacts on the addicted population. This study aimed to assess the severity, patterns, and consequences of Methamphetamine addiction among adult patients at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Angoda, Sri Lanka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among adult clients (aged >18 years) diagnosed with Methamphetamine use disorder according to DSM-5 criteria. A sample of 427 participants was recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured, validated, interviewer-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic details, addiction severity, consumption patterns, impacts, and reasons for use. Descriptive statistics were analyzed using SPSS version 26. All participants (100%) responded to the survey. Among participants, 93.7% were male, and 65.3% were aged 18-30 years. The majority resided in urban (57.8%) or semi-urban (36.1%) areas. Addiction severity was categorized as mild (29%), moderate (38.6%), and severe (32.3%). Most (65.3%) initiated Methamphetamine use between 21-30 years. Smoking (52.7%) and snorting (45%) were common methods of use, with peer pressure (48.9%) cited as the primary reason for initiation. The most cited physical impacts were weight loss (38.88%) and loss of appetite (37.24%), while irritability (28.81%) and interpersonal relationship problems (50.82%) were cited as common mental and social impacts, respectively. Findings reveal that young urban males are predominantly affected by Methamphetamine addiction, with moderate to severe dependence common. Peer influence and easy accessibility were significant contributing factors. The physical, mental, and social health impacts emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies focusing on prevention, early detection, and integrated rehabilitation services at the national level.