Objectives: Substance use disorder is a severe public health problem that negatively affects the individual, the family, and the community. The aim of this occupational therapy relapse prevention pilot (OTRPP) program was to reduce the adverse effects of substance abuse and promote recovery, occupational re-engagement, and wellness among substance abusers.
Methods: Purposive sampling was used to recruit for this pilot program. Participants were recovering substance abusers over the age of 18 who lived in Ankaase town and other neighboring towns in the Kwabre south district of the Ashanti Region, Ghana, and were currently receiving outpatient substance abuse treatment at Ankaase Methodist Hospital or had been recently discharged or had been identified by Ankaase Hospital as an individual that would benefit from the OTRPP program. The themes explored focused on identifying triggers, coping strategies, engagement in meaningful activities, mindfulness, and stress management. The Modified Interest Checklist (MIC) for diverse learners and the BRIEF COPE measure was administered to participants before and after completing the OTRPP program. Interventions were delivered in a hybrid format, face-to-face and group sessions in Ankaase Methodist Hospital Campus, with virtual follow-up sessions.
Impact / Results: Findings from the OTRPP program showed increased participant COPE scores after receiving OTRPP intervention, indicating a greater utilization of coping strategies to prevent relapse.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: The OTRPP program supports the need for an OT relapse prevention program at Ankaase Methodist Hospital. Program outcomes showed participants who completed the pilot program benefitted from having an increased awareness of triggers, and successful re-engagement in meaningful activities to support their recovery and prevent relapse.