Community-Based Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation: A Case Study of Phra Lap Subdistrict, Khon Kaen Province

Authors

  • Parnrada Pitiorathai
  • Naiyana Supang
  • Montira Chanagarn
  • Pranom Kaewdang
  • Manit Ketbuakhao

Keywords:

drug addiction, community-based drug rehabilitation

Abstract

This participatory action research aimed to: (1) examine the community context, (2) develop a community-based rehabilitation model, and (3) evaluate its outcomes. The study was conducted in Phra Lap Subdistrict, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province, from February 2024 to April 2025. Participants comprised 49 people who used drugs and 48 community caregivers. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and a motivation assessment tool. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

In Phase 1, most drug users were adolescents or laborers, used multiple substances, lacked understanding of addiction, could not control cravings, and community participation was low. In Phase 2, intervention tools were developed and piloted: 21 drug users received home-based care, and 28 participated in eight group therapy sessions combined with home practice. In Phase 3, three-month follow-up revealed relapse in both groups. The community then implemented a “second cycle” model, enrolling 10 relapsed individuals from the first cycle for further rehabilitation. Six-month follow-up showed complete abstinence in all participants. In addition to community-based rehabilitation, the center now serves as a model learning hub and provides ongoing rehabilitation for individuals from other communities.

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Published

2025-08-31

How to Cite

Pitiorathai, P., Supang , N., Chanagarn, M., Kaewdang, P., & Ketbuakhao, M. (2025). Community-Based Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation: A Case Study of Phra Lap Subdistrict, Khon Kaen Province. Trends in Nursing and Health Science Journal, 1(2), 1–14. retrieved from https://he05.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/tnhsj/article/view/6565

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 2 (2025): พฤษภาคม-สิงหาคม

Section

Research Article

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