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Correspondence to Author: Dapap D.Datak¹ , Nwoga Charles² , Audu D Moses² . 

1. Department of Psychiatry, College of medical Sciences, Bingham University, Jos, Plateau state, Nigeria.
2. Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Plateau state, Nigeria.a

DOI: 10.52338/jopm.2025.5080

Abstract:

Background: Drug use and school dropout are often intertwined, with one exacerbating the other. For students, substance abuse may begin as a form of coping with academic stress, social pressures, or personal issues. Over time, drug use can interfere with cognitive functioning, making it harder for students to concentrate, participate in classes, and maintain good grades. These academic struggles can increase frustration, leading to disengagement from school, behavioral issues, and ultimately dropping out.
Objectives: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of school drop outs among drug users in a drug treatment center and to evaluate the demographic correlates of school dropout
Method: This retrospective cross- sectional study analyzed data on 1,187 clients from a drug treatment center in Jos, Nigeria over ten years (2013-2023). The sample included all patients admitted during this period, for drug treatment, in which some had a history of school dropout prior to treatment. Data was collected from medical records and analyzed using SPSS version 22, where frequency and chi square statistics were used as statistical analysis.
Results: The prevalence of school drop-out was 5.9%. Out of these, 89% drop out at the level of degree program, and about 83% of these school drop-outs were from public higher institutions. School dropout was more prevalent among Islamic religion (p=0.001), Hausa ethnic group (p=0.001) and artisan occupational group (p=0.008).
Conclusion:The study showed high prevalence of school dropouts among drug users in treatment centers which has important implications for both drug rehabilitation programs and educational systems. Treatment centers should consider offering integrated services that address the educational needs of their clients. This may include providing educational support or collaboration with local schools to create a pathway for reintegrating individuals into the educational system once they have completed treatment

KeyWords: School dropout, drug users, drug treatment center, substance abuse, academic failure.

Citation:

Dapap D.Datak, Prevalence of School Drop Outs Among Drug Users in a Drug Treatment Center; A 10 year Retrospective Study. Journal of Psychological Medicine 2025.