Perceptions of the significant others living with an adult family member experiencing reoccurring relapse from substance use : a social work perspective

Abstract

The use of substances is a big challenge globally. Despite prevention, treatment, and aftercare programmes to eradicate this phenomenon, individuals often relapse within months after completing their treatment. The recurring relapses are not only costly to the country, but they also affect the health of the family members of users who experience tension, uncertainty, and anxiety to such an extent that it becomes life-threatening. The continuous consumption of substances leads to addiction, and this causes more stress and discord within the family. The purpose of this study was to explore, identify, and describe the perceptions of significant others living with an adult family member experiencing reoccurring relapse from substance misuse. This study was found that service users experiencing reoccurring relapse because of numerous factors such as the absence of the parents in their lives, lack of motivation and direction, unemployment, and peer pressure. Therefore, the study recommended that inpatient centre should offer better services and it also eradicate self- discharge policy, and it should improve security services because service users are using while in the centre. Fourteen women and three men participated in the study. The researcher gathered data by conducting face-to-face interviews with the participants. Data were analysed thematically. Furthermore, data verification and theoretical frameworks were used. The ethical issues involved when conducting the research, namely informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, avoidance of harm, and management of information. Lastly, the researcher proffered recommendations on the findings.