Mehtap KIZILKAYA, Sema TOKER, Gülçin UZUNOĞLU
İnönü Üniversitesi Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksek Okulu Dergisi - 2025;13(3):736-751
The aim of this study is to explore the views and experiences of adolescents with substance addiction concerning existential problems. This study was conducted using a qualitative design, specifically a phenomenological approach. The study included 11 adolescents aged between 14 and 18 years. One-on-one, face-to-face interviews were conducted with the participants. The data were analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method. Four main themes (substance use, existential problems, psychosocial experiences, and treatment and change) and ten sub-themes (reasons for initiation, effects of substance use, search for identity, meaning of life and values, existential void, future goals and expectations, family relationships, peer group and social interaction, desire and motivation to quit substance use, and hopes for future change) were identified. The findings revealed that most participants started using substances due to peer influence, felt a sense of loneliness as they could not find meaning in life, and were unable to fill their existential void. Furthermore, it was observed that they struggled to cope with their problems, used substances as an escape mechanism, and reported feeling more existentially free while under the influence of substances.
