Abstract
The use of psychoactive substance among Nigerian young adults is increasingly a source of concern due to its negative impact on them. This research analyzed the literature on predisposition to psychoactive substances in Nigeria, with a focus on young people in the South-South region of Nigeria. The notion and idea of psychoactive substances were discussed, as well as several popular psychoactive substances used by young adults, such as alcohol, cigarettes, amphetamines, tranquillo sedatives and hypnotics, mild CNS stimulants, and marijuana. Furthermore, predisposing factors such as peer pressure, socioeconomic status, and family history of psychoactive substance use, accessibility and availability of psychoactive substances, cultural and religious beliefs, mental health disorders, and myths about their use were investigated. The effects and symptoms of its use in young adults were also investigated. The research proposed certain counselling intervention strategies to reduce their use, such as talk therapy/behavioural change, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, among others. Finally, various recommendations were made, such as education and awareness, positive peer influence, parental participation, and government policy measures.