The experience of methamphetamine use disorder and the negative consequences of relapse – a qualitative study

Abstract

Background The rate of relapse for people in recovery for substance use disorder is as high as 85% within the first 12 months of recovery, however, research on the lived experience of relapse is limited. Objective The present qualitative study investigated the experience of relapse with people who have Methamphetamine use disorder and the reasons why they returned to recovery. Methods The exploratory study recruited five (n = 5) adults who identified as having Methamphetamine use disorder. All participants had sought treatment for more than 12 months, they were attending an addiction support service, and had experienced a relapse within the past 15 months. Interviews were conducted in which participants were asked an open-ended question about their most recent relapse and the negative consequences associated with their drug use. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results A return to daily drug use led to negative consequences such as relationship breakdowns, poor mental health and acting in ways that went against the participant’s morals and values. This study provides an insight into the types of experiences people who relapse after seeking treatment for Methamphetamine use disorder may have and how these experiences can influence their decision to return to recovery. Conclusions People who regularly attend a recovery program are still susceptible to relapse. Those who have maintained abstinence for a period of time prior to relapse may be able to assess the negative consequences of their drug use more easily. This prior experience of recovery might influence their decision to stop using again.