Examined drug abuse patterns in psychiatric populations in Saudi Arabi423 males (aged <20-50+ yrs) with drug abuse problems and residing in mental health facilities completed interviews and assessments concerning drug abuse, addiction, and psychiatric disorders. Medical records were reviewed for data concerning drug abuse history, demographic factors, addiction reasons, and leisure time use. Results show that most drug abuse Ss were unmarried, unemployed, young adult smokers with basic education. Ss' initial alcohol abuse was followed by amphetamine abuse. Most Ss had friends or relatives who abused drugs, and most sought treatment because of drug problems, family advice, and imprisonment. Findings suggest that adverse drug abuse effects include domestic and societal violence, educational difficulties, religious belief erosion, unemployment, chronic economic problems, and criminal activities. It is concluded that drug use, addiction, and associated problems are present in Saudi Arabia, and that parents can play a key role in drug prevention through controlling the money supplied to children.