Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/917103

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Title
Factors associated with retention in a long-term residential rehabilitation programme for women with substance use problems
Author/Creator
Johns, Kristy;  Baker, Amanda;  Webster, Rosemary A.;  Lewin, Terry J.
Institution
The University of Newcastle. Faculty of Health, School of Medicine and Public Health
Description
Background: Retention in substance abuse treatment is difficult but essential for positive post-treatment outcomes. Aims: The present study is the first to explore factors related to retention in a long-term specialist residential substance abuse treatment programme for women in Australia. Methods: Archival data (e.g. socio-demographic, substance use, mental health, and length of stay) were collected from a sample of 71 women admitted to the programme between January 1997, and November 2002. Participants were divided into two groups based on their length of stay in the programme: less than 90 days (n = 42) and 90 days or more (n = 29). Results: A substantial proportion of the sample experienced comorbid substance abuse and mental health problems, with 60.6% (n = 43/71) reporting evidence of comorbidity (either a previous psychiatric diagnosis, or having been prescribed psychiatric medications). Overall, only 13% of residents completed the programme. Longer retention was associated with demographic (older age and shorter duration of substance use), drug use (having recently used heroin), and social variables (being single, less family adversity, and a higher level of social support and functioning). Conclusions: Modifications to residential rehabilitation should be trialled, including: flexibility in the duration of programmes; bonding and engagement strategies for younger women and those with social difficulties and adverse family histories; relationship and/or substance use interventions for partners; and flexible integrated interventions for comorbid substance use and mental health problems.
Relation
Mental Health and Substance Use: Dual Diagnosis Vol. 2, Issue 1, p. 40-51
Publisher Link
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17523280802593285
Date
2009
Publisher
Routledge
Keyword(s)
comorbidity;  heroin;  rehabilitation;  retention;  substance misuse;  treatment
Resource Type
journal article
Identifier
http://hdl.handle.net/1959.13/917103
Identifier
ISSN:1752-3281
Reviewed
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Subject
"Mental Health and Substance Use: Dual Diagnosis"
 
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