Abstract
For most people, work is important and a normal part of everyday life. However, research studies focusing on the significance of employment for successful outcomes in maintenance treatment for opiate addiction from the users’ perspective are scarce. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of individuals who were employed while undergoing opiate treatment, with regard to the perceived meaning of work. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 32 individuals in Sweden and analyzed using content analysis. In addition to the importance of receiving maintenance treatment, all regarded work as an indispensable tool for staying drug-free and for personal development. Further studies are needed regarding the potential for integrating vocational support models into maintenance treatment programs.