Developing an integrative model for the treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts in secondary school

Abstract

Objective : The aim of this study was to evaluate the situation of drug addicts in a secondary school who had received treatment but had relapsed, and develop an integrative model for treatment and rehabilitation.

Methods : The action research was designed and undertaken from June 1, 2016-March 31, 2019 in a secondary school in Mahasarakham, Thailand. The study included 24 drug addicts who had already participated in treatment and rehabilitation, and 50 people including teachers, family and care givers, community leaders, health volunteers, and health staff in the area. In 2016, two out of 29 drug addicts were abstinent from drugs for one year after going through only a psychosocial program.

Results : In 2017, five out of 30 drug addicts were abstinent from drugs for one year after going through the psychosocial program with support from teachers and health staff. In 2018 roles for teachers, health professionals, and community leaders were assigned for taking part in the treatment and rehabilitation program. In 2018 roles for teachers, health professionals, and community leaders were assigned for taking part in the treatment and rehabilitation program. This new support when combined with the psychosocial program pushed the abstinence rate up to 79% after three months and to 87.5% after one year.

Conclude : Adding support to psychosocial programs is a suitable integrative model for treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts in secondary schools. 

Keyword : Treatment and rehabilitation, drug addicts