Breaking the ice: narratives of recovery from crystal methamphetamine

ABSTRACT

Objective: The present study aimed to explore the social, behavioural, and cognitive components described by individuals transitioning from crystal methamphetamine (CM) addiction to maintained recovery.

Method: Seven participants, who had abstained from use for at least 6 months, took part in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were subject to Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results: Four super-ordinate themes were identified, including engagement with CM, stigma and identity, relationships with others, and recovery.

Conclusion: Participants’ use of CM was maintained by biopsychosocial reinforcers such as identity development, social relationships, and maladaptive coping. Recovery was initiated by self-awareness, accountability, and discovering meaning in life. The study provides important insights for allied health professionals supporting those recovering from CM use.

KEY POINTS

What is already known about the topic:

(1) Australia has one of the highest use rates of crystal methamphetamine.

(2) Crystal methamphetamine addiction is associated with severe psychological, social, health problems, as well as high rates of relapse.

(3) Despite the availability of treatment programs, individuals face significant barriers to recovery

What this topic adds:

(1) This study describes in detail the common experiences of seven participants from addiction to recovery and the unique impacts of crystal methamphetamine.

(2) Participants described barriers to recovery, including stigma specific to crystal methamphetamine and the loss of heightened intimacy.

(3) The study highlights the importance of self-awareness and moments of insight that initiated recovery, as well as processes that helped to maintain recovery.

KEYWORDS:

• Addiction
• substance use
• crystal methamphetamine
• qualitative
• Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.