Well-Being Under Pressure: Psychoactive Substance Use and Mental Health Outcomes Among Young Artisanal Gold Miners in Ghana

Background: Psychoactive substance use (PSU) is a growing public health concern, particularly among young adults in high-risk occupations such as artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM). Despite the increasing attention to substance use and its mental health implications globally, limited evidence exists on the patterns and drivers of PSU among young miners in Ghana. Aims: This study examined the patterns, drivers, and mental health implications of psychoactive substance use among young artisanal and small-scale gold miners in Ghana. Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 332 miners aged 18 to 35 years (mean age = 28.82; 84.3% male), selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and post-hoc tests in SPSS version 25. Results: Substance use was highly prevalent among participants, with energy drinks (86.7%) and alcohol (43.4%) being the most commonly used substances. Lower usage was reported for cigarettes (15.7%), marijuana (13.3%), tobacco (7.2%), and tramadol (6.0%). PSU was significantly associated with gender and marital status. Participants who frequently consumed alcohol and energy drinks exhibited higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Major drivers of PSU included occupational pressures, harsh working conditions, and the need to manage stress. Conclusions: The study highlights psychoactive substance use as a serious mental health issue among young ASGM workers in Ghana. There is an urgent need for targeted mental health education and support programs within mining communities. Integrating such interventions into occupational health policies could enhance miners’ well-being and reduce substance-related harm.