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Coping with problematic drug use in the family: An evaluation of the S tepping S tones program
Author(s) -
Gethin Anni,
Trimingham Tony,
Chang Theo,
Farrell Michael,
Ross Joanne
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
drug and alcohol review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.018
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1465-3362
pISSN - 0959-5236
DOI - 10.1111/dar.12327
Subject(s) - coping (psychology) , psychology , substance use , clinical psychology , drug , psychiatry
and Aims Problematic substance use by an individual is often highly destructive to their family, creating emotional turmoil and destroying healthy family functioning. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of participation in the S tepping S tones family support program on the coping capacity of family members affected by another's substance use. Design and Methods A pre and post study of the S tepping S tones intervention for families was conducted, involving 108 participants recruited from M arch 2013 to M arch 2014. Results Significant improvement in coping across all domains was observed post course and at follow up on both outcome measures ( C oping Q uestionnaire and the F amily D rug S upport Q uestionnaire). Improvements for participants were either increased or sustained at 3 months follow up. Participants recorded high satisfaction ratings. Discussion and Conclusions The findings from this study demonstrate that participation in the S tepping S tones program assists family members to cope better with problematic substance use of a family member, as indicated by reductions in negative coping strategies, such as over‐engagement, making excuses for the drug user or hopelessly tolerating the problem, and improvements in positive coping strategies such as self‐care and engagement with their own activities and interests. [Gethin A, Trimingham T, Chang T, Farrell M, Ross J. Coping with problematic drug use in the family: An evaluation of the Stepping Stones program. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:470–476]