Factors associated with illicit drug use among women with children in a national sample

Background/Significance: Research demonstrates that children and adolescents exposed to maternal addiction experience a variety of problems, including cognitive, socio-emotional, and behavioral difficulties, poor adaptation in young adulthood, and adult substance abuse. Objective/Purpose: We examined the factors associated with illicit drug abuse and dependence among a nationally representative sample of women with children less than 18 years in the household. Methods: Data were from the 2002 and 2003 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (N=19,300). Covariates included socio-demographics, self-rated health status, health insurance coverage, severe mental illness (SMI), severe stress in the past year, and interpersonal violence. Weighted chi-square and multiple logistic regression were utilized. Results: Most respondents were between 18 and 49 years and had one or two children. The overall prevalence of illicit drug abuse or dependence was 3.1%. Compared to mothers without drug abuse or dependence, substance abusing mothers were significantly more likely to be unmarried, controlling for race, income, and employment status. They also were more likely to report poorer health status, meet the criteria for SMI, and have a public source of health insurance. Mothers who were older, had a high school degree, and reported no severe stress in the past year were significantly less likely to abuse illicit drugs. Discussion/Conclusions: Single mothers and mothers with SMI, poor perceived health, severe stress, and a public source of health insurance are at increased risk for illicit drug abuse. Prevention and intervention programs should target these populations to reduce youth exposure to maternal addiction.