Objective:

To understand the experiences associated with the consumption of psychoactive substances among young and adult individuals institutionalized in a mental health center.

Materials and method:

Qualitative study with micro-ethnographic design to explore a population of young and adult individuals institutionalized due to psychoactive substance use. The sample was selected through convenience sampling based on established selection criteria. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews and the analysis and interpretation of results were guided by Madeleine Leininger's model.

Results:

Two central categories and six subcategories were obtained: 1) In the world of drug addiction (perception of others about the drug addict, self-opinion regarding the use of psychoactive substances and consequences of drug addiction); 2) Entry into the world of drug addiction (individual characteristics linked to drug use, circumstances related to the peer group and the family environment).

Conclusions:

Young people and adults who consume psychoactive substances are often associated with criminal activities and violence, leading to experiences of discrimination and rejection. These experiences generate self-perceptions that affect personal, family, and social spheres, making it challenging for these individuals to adhere to the rehabilitation process.

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