Comparison of Iranian Substance Users’ Relapse and Abstinence Duration Between Peer-Supported Vocational Networks and Mid Term Residential Treatment Centers

Abstract

Relapse prevention (RP) programs mainly focus on substance users. However, workplace support and communications with colleagues can also play an important role in RP. This study compared relapse and abstinence duration between a group of Iranian substance users enrolled in a peer-supported vocational network (PVN) and a similar group enrolled in mid term residential treatment centers (MTRTCs). A case–control study was conducted among PVN members (n = 85 cases) and substance users discharged from MTRTCs (n = 85 controls) in Tehran, Iran. Case and control groups were matched for age, age of first substance use, duration of substance use, and date of registration in treatment center or PVN. One step multi-drug Abon rapid drug test in urine samples of participants was conducted to assess abstinence. Majority of the participants were single (44%) and 31–40 years old (48%). Statistically significant differences in abstinence were observed between control and PVN supported case groups. The duration of abstinence was four times higher in the PVN supported case group and MTRTCs’ clients reported relapses three times more than PVN members. PVNs could be effective method for reducing the triggers in workplace and RP among substance users. Additional research on feasibility and cost-effectiveness is suggested for broader and population based implementation of PVNs across cross-cultural settings.