Perception and Treatment Practices of Youths with Khat Chewing in Dessie Town, North-East Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study
Abstract Background: Khat (Catha edulis) chewing has been a highly prevalent practice among youth in Ethiopia. Although several studies investigated its adverse effects, there is a gap in evidence on treatment experience of youth with khat use. Therefore, this study explored the perception of youth on khat chewing and their treatment practice. Methods: The study employed a qualitative study design. The data was gathered through in-depth interviews (N=6), focus group discussions (N=15) and key informants (N=2) interview using purposive sampling. Audio recorded data was manually transcribed and translated, and thematically analyzed. Results: The study found that personal, social and environmental factors were responsible for the habit of chewing khat. Most respondents reported benefits or positive consequences of khat use. They endorsed that khat helps them to feel relaxed, relieve tension and stress, and feel happy, although many admitted feeling depressed after the effect wanes. It would also make them alert, active, and energetic. Participants also reported that khat was easily available and khat use was a social behavior. They learned it from their elders. To manage the negative effects of khat, participants took different coping measures such as drinking too much water, taking alcohols and milk to manage dehydration and break the feeling high. Conclusion: Youth perceived khat use as habitual practice. They didn’t have any modern treatment experience, except personal coping strategies. Future studies should emphasize on khat use literacy, screening, and treatment engagement especially for problematic khat users.