Jordanian client perspectives of substance abuse: Implications for occupational therapists

Background/Aims: Substance abuse is a global health problem with harmful consequences for the individual, family and society. This study explored the personal factors contributing to substance abuse from the perspective of Jordanian clients and its implications for occupational therapy. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted using a questionnaire with nine open-ended questions to explore participants' experience of their illness and recovery. Inductive content analysis was used to analyse data. Results: Participants were 146 Jordanian substance abuse clients (142 male) with a mean age of 28 years. Five main themes emerged: fears; personal traits; helpers; speaking out; the best solution. Conclusions: Occupational therapists might design client-centred interventions for substance abuse where they consider the perspectives of clients with regard to the personal traits that contribute to their recovery. Occupational therapy services that take an interdisciplinary team approach are recommended for clients diagnosed with substance abuse.