Psychosocial Triggering Factors of Relapse among Substance Abusers: The Case of Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital Rehabilitation Center
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Date
2019-08
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Substance abuse is a chronic, relapsing illness. Internationally the relapse-rates following treatment are high. In Ethiopia, many studies have been done on the problem of substance abuse but little is known on the issue aggravating relapse. The aim of the study was to identify the triggering factors causing relapse happen among Substance Abusers. The site of the study was Amanuel mental specialized hospital rehabilitation center. Cross sectional, exploratory and case study qualitative research method was used. In-depth interview, key informant interview and observation were employed. Data were gathered from various sources to triangulate and ensure the trustworthiness of the information and all the information collected were analyzed. Out of the population under treatment, the researcher used purposive sampling technique to select eight relapsed patients informants remained under treatment and three key informants in this study. In using this technique, it was supplemented by inclusive criteria to make the selection free of the researcher’s bias. The findings show that, the psychosocial factors such as negative emotional states, insufficient support after treatment, personal loss and peer pressure trigger are recounted in factors causing relapse. It was also found out that environment as one of the factors triggering relapse and the accessibility and availability of drugs and alcohol where they live in and work contribute to relapse after treatment. The study further identified Relapse to substance abuse had health, psychosocial and economic problems. It is recommended that a structured aftercare program based on the psychosocial triggering factors of relapse among substance abusers should be implemented. Besides, efforts should be made to develop effective relapse prevention strategy. Based on the findings of the study, future research areas and social work implications and interventions were forwarded.
Key words: Substance abuse, Relapse, Substance abusers, Amanuel hospital, Rehabilitation center
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Keywords
Substance abuse, Relapse, Substance abusers, Amanuel hospital, Rehabilitation center