The Implementation of Drug Abuse Rehabilitation to Prevent Relapse: A Systematic Literature Review

Rehabilitation is an integrated recovery program for individuals with drug abuse disorders. However, addiction is a chronic and relapsing condition. This study aims to explore how the implementation of rehabilitation programs can prevent relapse in individuals recovering from drug abuse. A systematic literature review methodology was employed in this study. Relevant literature was identified through electronic searches of valid databases using keywords related to drug rehabilitation and relapse prevention. The articles were retrieved and screened using the Watase UAKE website. Databases including MDPI, Frontiers Media, ScienceDirect, Elsevier, SAGE, OAMJMS, Mary Ann Liebert, BMC, Routledge, Springer, Emerald Insight, EASA, and Informa Healthcare were systematically searched using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), excluding meta-analysis, to obtain empirical studies published between 2014 and 2024. Out of the 489 articles collected, 27 were included in the analysis. The results showed that the successful implementation of drug rehabilitation programs is influenced by various factors, including intrinsic motivation, social support, and fulfillment of psychological needs during the rehabilitation process. Rehabilitation programs can shift clients’ perspectives, enabling a better understanding of life’s values and meaning. This is essential for relapse prevention after rehabilitation. Additionally, relapse prevention programs play a critical role in enhancing the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts. While many factors contribute to relapse, therapeutic interventions are important for predicting retention in therapeutic communities for substance abuse treatment.