Understanding the laps and relapse process: in-depth interviews with individual who use methamphetamine

OBJECTIVE: The high rate of treatment failure is a common problem in the treatment of methamphetamine use. Therefore, the aim of this research is to identify the most common causes of relapse in methamphetamine users. METHOD: This is a qualitative study and of content analysis type. Information was collected using purposeful sampling and through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The statistical population consisted of all people with the methamphetamine-use disorder in 2022 who were in the abstinence phase and participated in the meetings of the Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Center of Bojnord. Theoretical sampling continued until data saturation. A total of 10 one-on-one interviews were conducted, each lasting between 45 to 80 min. Additionally, two focus group interviews were conducted with six members in each group, lasting between 95 to 110 min and data saturation was achieved through these interviews. Data analysis was done using the content analysis method (Sterling). Recoding and Holsti's method were used to measure reliability; validity was then calculated through content validity assessment. FINDINGS: The results of the thematic analysis showed that laps and relapse factors were identified and categorized into 5 organizing themes, including negative emotional states, positive emotional states, negative physical states, interpersonal factors, and environmental factors, consisting of 39 basic themes. RESULT: Identifying the risk factors leading to laps and relapse in methamphetamine users and increasing the knowledge in this field can lay the groundwork for preventive therapeutic interventions in this community.