CHALLENGES FACING RURAL COMMUNITIES IN ACCESSING SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT

Year 2019, Volume: 11 Issue: 1, 35 - 50, 01.01.2019

İrene Mohasoa Sello Mokoena

Abstract

The overwhelming effects of substance abuse on individuals, families and
societies demand effective mechanisms of deterrence. While there is consensus
about the importance of prevention, however, there are some challenges in
accessing treatment for substance abuse. The study explored barriers that rural
communities in North West province, South Africa, encounter in accessing
treatment for substance abuse. Social constructivism research paradigm and
qualitative research approach were used. A sample consisted of male and female
adolescents, educators, parents, mental health worker, clinical psychologist, social
worker, traditional healer, as well as a traditional leader. Purposive and snowball
sampling were employed to recruit participants. Interviews were used to collect
data. Thematic analysis was employed to analyse data. The findings revealed that
adolescents found it difficult to access substance abuse treatment facilities due to
waiting period before approval was granted and distance they had to travel to
reach the facilities. Those who received treatment, lacked after care support due to
limited number of social workers allocated to their rural areas and lack of
transport funds to attend follow up sessions at rehabilitation centres. The study
recommended the establishment of substance abuse treatment centres, especially
in rural communities to ensure easy access by adolescents.

Keywords

Challenges, substance abuse, treatment, programmes.

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