5th Edition of Addiction World Conference 2026

Abstract

In a rapidly changing world and in growing development, youth substance abuse is a very alarming state that attributes tremendous despair to their mothers' mental health. Youth substance abuse is recognised as a significant family issue, warranting an exploration of its prevalence within family systems and its consequential impact on mothers, marital relationships, and overall family dynamics. This study aimed to understand how youth substance abuse affects their mothers' well-being and the functioning of the family. Basically, this study aims to understand the effects of youth substance abuse on the well being and functioning of the family. In the context of this study, qualitative research methods were used to describe how youth substance abuse affects family functioning.  The study was conducted in Gauteng, in the Tshwane municipality, at three inpatient treatment centres. Purposive sampling was used to select 12 participants suitable for this study. Data were collected through individual semi structured interviews guided by a structured interview guide. Data was analysed and verified using the six steps of thematic analysis. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout this research study. Five themes emerged from this study Stigma and isolation, Societies expectations and pressures, Mothers health issues, Violence in the family, and Family disruptions. The findings of this study aim to identify a potential pathway for developing social work interventions that ensure the implementation of both international and national social work standards. Additionally, the findings seek to design interventions that recognise mothers not only as caregivers but also as individuals who require psychosocial support.