The effectiveness of psychosocial support to the recovering young adults in Nairobi County

Abstract

This study sought to assess the impact of psychosocial support services among young adults recovering from drug and substance abuse in Nairobi County. The government of Kenya, in partnership with NACADA (National Campaign against Drug Abuse), are working together to curb the practice of drug and substance abuse as well as assisting recovering young adults to reform. Despite the efforts, the drug users' recovery rate in Kenya remains low, with cases of drug relapse and discontinuation from medically assisted treatment (MAT) programs being high. The study was grounded on family therapy theory and cognitive behaviour theories. The study used a descriptive survey design. The results highlighted strengths in understanding and perceived effectiveness of psychosocial support services in the centre while also identifying areas such as relapse management and public awareness where improvements may be beneficial. The results showed that recovering drug users and psychosocial support providers perceived psychosocial support services as highly effective in supporting recovery. The study recommends that the government should deliberate on various interventions and current policies addressing drug and substance abuse and outcomes, as this will enhance the recovery process.