![Sample our Bioscience journals, sign in here to start your access, Latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5925/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Bioscience.jpg"})
ABSTRACT
Literature links mental health problems comorbid with substance abuse with increased recovery time. There is limited research evaluating the effectiveness of substance abuse treatments for dual-diagnosis patients. This project aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the BTSA group with this population. Questionnaires measuring motivation, locus of control, confidence to abstain and self-efficacy were administered to six different cohorts of BTSA participants (N = 38) at baseline, post, and follow-up stages. In addition, participants from the most recent BTSA cohort (N = 4) attended a post-program focus group, to provide information about their experiences of the intervention. Statistical analyses revealed that participants’ confidence in their ability to manage substance abuse was significantly higher post group, but the hypotheses that there would also be significant improvements in participants’ self-efficacy, motivation, and locus of control following completion of the program were not supported. Thematic analysis identified three key themes relevant to participants, namely validation, psychoeducation and identifying progress. This project provided valuable insights into participants’ experiences of the group, highlighting what they had gained form the intervention, and the impact on them from having Recovery Champions working in conjunction with NHS staff to facilitate the intervention. Limitations are discussed, alongside recommendations for improving the program.
Acknowledgments
We would like to express our gratitude to all service users who, over the years, took part in this service evaluation.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).