Psycho Social Determinants of Relapse Among Patients Diagonised with Substance Use Disorder at Parirenyatwa Psychiatric Unit Annexe

Substance abuse has become a substantial and growing problem in Zimbabwe that has resulted in a high number of admissions and readmissions, in public institutions; particularly at Parirenyatwa Annexe. Despite the available treatment, a considerable number of relapse cases have been recorded at Annexe, which has had to accommodate the cases due the shortage of rehabilitation centers in the country. The primary aim of the study was to explore the psychosocial determinants of relapse among people diagonised with substance use disorder. Additionally, the study sought to explore the risk factors for re-admission and the major substances used by the patients. A qualitative research design was utilised with the purposive sampling method. Ten participants took part in the study and data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The thematic analysis identified the following themes as the psychosocial factors that led to relapse: stigma, stress, dual diagnosis, family influence, work pressure, craving and availability. Furthermore, crystal methamphetamine, cannabis and alcohol were found to be the major substances used. The risk factors for re-admission were identified as unemployment, lack of social support and peer influence. The theoretical framework utilised to understand this study was the relapse prevention model developed by Marlatt. According to the study psychotherapy interventions may beneficial when focusing on the identification and management of high risk factors including the role of families as a part of treatment plans. Additionally, community awareness campaigns should be conducted to educate on substance use disorder and rehabilitation homes that offer treatment and skills training for those diagonised with substance use disorder should be established.