Challenges for reintegrated youths recovering from substance use disorders in Harare, Zimbabwe: A phenomenological study

Abstract

With the rise in substance use disorders in Zimbabwe, several interventions have been instituted, but the problem continues on an upward trajectory. One aspect that has been neglected is the reintegration of young people recovering from substance use disorders. As such, this study investigates the challenges that youths recovering from substance use disorders face in Highfield, Harare. We adopted a qualitative interpretative phenomenological design and interviewed 12 participants and 4 key informants. Data were analysed through interpretative phenomenological analysis. From the findings, youths recovering from substance use disorders face several challenges in their reintegration and these include social stigma, lack of empowerment programs, stress, idleness, relapse and lack of social support. We then recommended the need to extend reintegration and aftercare services through the case management system, the prioritisation of income-generating projects for reintegrated youths, community sensitisation, and the development of a substance use policy that addresses issues of reintegration, among others.