How do substance abusers and their significant others experience the re-entry phase of therapeutic community treatment: a qualitative study

Transition to re-entry (aftercare) is a stressful event for therapeutic community residents. While several authors agree on the importance of social support during reintegration, few studies have focused on the experiences of re-entry clients themselves and their significant others during this period. Using a case-study design, the present study examines the re-entry process of four TC-residents and three of their social network members during a six-month period, starting at the time of their transfer to the halfway house. Clients and their significant others have mixed feelings about the reintegration period, although both are mainly positive. Clients report difficulties in leaving behind the TC-mentality and building up a stable social network; they are surprised about the frequent contacts with substance (ab)use in mainstream society. Significant others misjudge clients' feelings about transition and relapse. Many significant others have a positive attitude towards the use of substances. The tendency in mainstream society to increasingly accept the use of substances intensifies clients' need for early guidance in building up stable supportive networks. Significant others need well-grounded information on the reintegration process and on relapse.