SUCCESSES AND SETBACKS OF METHAMPHETAMINE USERS IN REHABILITATION CENTERS: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

This is a qualitative study to examine lived experiences of those recovering after methamphetamine addiction in rehabilitation centers in the Pakistani state. As the abuse of methamphetamine is increasing in the area, it becomes more important to study the personal, psychological, and social aspects under which recoveries and relapses take place. The authors employed the in-depth semi-structured interviews applying the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) on eight individuals who were in the treatment process at the time. The results identified five major themes overall including the use of methamphetamines as an emotional escape, stigmatization and the rejection of others in the society, the input of spirituality in the recovery processes, the difficulties encountered after rehabilitation, and the network of peers as a source of motivation in achieving long-term recovery. Interviewees pointed to family issues, inability to find a job after treatment and reintegration issues as the common relapse triggers. On the other hand, organized support units, spiritual transformations, and peer groups also assisted in their process of recovery. The study outlines the usefulness of holistic, culturally responsive rehabilitation plans, which go past detoxification, and embrace longer-term psychosocial interventions. Such findings are of utmost urgency to practitioners, policymakers, and the designers of rehabilitation programs in Pakistan to help build more person-centered and effective interventions in substance use disorder.