Relationship Between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder And Recovery Performance Among Clients With Substance Use Disorders in Selected Rehabilitation Centres in Nairobi County

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to assess the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder and recovery performance among clients with substance use disorders in selected rehabilitation centers in Nairobi County. The objectives of the study were: to assess the prevalence of PTSD, establish the rate of relapse to substance use among clients with a history of PTSD, to determine the relationship between perception of safety and sobriety, and possible intervention strategies for the treatment of clients with substance use disorder who have experienced PTSD from the selected rehabilitation centers in Nairobi County. The study was anchored on the cognitive behavioral theory and the behavioral theory. The study employed a correlational research design. The target population was 100,000 from where a sample of 200 was calculated using the Krejcie & Morgan formula. In-patient clients were sampled using random sampling techniques and data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using cross-tabulation and displayed through tables, charts and bar charts. The prevalence of PTSD was measured using the International Trauma Questionnaire. The findings of the study indicated that there was a high prevalence of PTSD (99.5%) among individuals with substance use disorders. Emotional trauma was the most prevalent, followed by car accidents, violence, and sexual trauma. The demographic insights highlighted that males aged 20-29 and 30-39 were particularly affected. The study also established that there was a high relapse rate of 98% among the respondents. The factors contributing to relapse included stress, negative emotions, social pressure, and poor coping strategies. The study also established a strong link between perceived insecurity or discomfort in living or work environments and substance use disorder recovery. Almost all respondents (99.5%) reported a high level of perceived insecurity, and 95.4% perceived their environment as unsafe. The findings indicated that feeling safe was closely tied to maintaining sobriety for 95.4% of respondents. The entire surveyed population (100%) was actively seeking help while (88%) were utilizing detoxification. Further, 79% of respondents suggested the effectiveness of a multifaceted approach, endorsing the use of detoxification, medication, and support groups while 97% preferred treatment programs that addressed substance use disorder and PTSD simultaneously, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach in addressing these interconnected issues. The study beneficiaries include healthcare providers like clinicians and counselors, rehabilitation center managers, addiction and recovery curriculum developers and addiction policymakers who will gain insight into effective treatment strategies tailored to clients with co-occurring PTSD and SUD. The study suggested further research with gender specificity, peer-led trauma and addiction recovery support, and a similar longitudinal study with various behavioral, medical and or other recovery interventions to test for effectiveness.