Influence of Social Occupation on Relapse among Recovering Alcoholic Rehabilitees in Selected Rehabilitation Centres in Meru County, Kenya

Relapse remains a significant challenge in the treatment of alcohol-related disorders, particularly after the completion of inpatient treatment programs. In Kenya, relapse rates range from 20-80% among recovering rehabilitees. This study emerged to investigate the specific social occupational factors contributing to relapse among alcoholic rehabilitees in selected rehabilitation centres in Meru County, Kenya, addressing a gap in local research on the topic. The study aimed to delve into the social occupational influences on relapse rates, a relatively unexplored area in previous local research about relapse. The respondents of the study were individuals who had relapsed and were currently undergoing treatment in three selected rehabilitation centres in Meru County: Holy Innocents BPSS Centre in Timau, Methodist Treatment Centre in Kaaga, and St Nicolas Rehabilitation Centre in Tigania West. Employing a correlational research design, the study gathered data through interviews and questionnaires, focusing on a target population of 93 relapsed alcoholics receiving inpatient treatment. Prior to the main data collection, a pilot study was conducted at Harmony Therapy Centre in Nkubu, Meru County. This pilot study was crucial in refining the data collection tools and ensuring the response validity, which is essential for the credibility of the research findings. Descriptive statistics results related to social factors influencing alcohol relapse among the respondents revealed that work-related stress (M=3.29, SD=1.239), lack of work (M=3.12, SD=1.160), financial instability (M=3.34, SD=1.137), and boredom (M=3.34, SD=1.229) significantly contribute to alcohol relapse among rehabilitees in Meru County, Kenya. Participants agreed that these factors were influential in their relapse. However, multi-regression analysis (β=-0.017, p=0.845) showed no significant relationship between social occupation and relapse, suggesting that while these factors are acknowledged by the rehabilitees, the broader influence of social occupation on relapse may be less significant in this specific context. The comprehensive analysis suggests that effective treatment for alcohol-related relapse requires personalized and holistic approaches. These should address the specific social and occupational risk factors that individuals face and aim to build resilience and well-being in their recovery journey. Thus, the findings of this study emphasize the importance of designing treatment programs that not only focus on the addiction itself but also on the broader life context of the individuals, promoting a more sustainable and supportive recovery process.