Social workers' perspectives on supporting parents of adolescents recovering from substance use disorder

Abstract

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a widespread issue that has made it difficult for families to maintain their wellbeing, especially for the parents of adolescents who are recovering from SUD. SUD is characterised by the inability to stop using a harmful substance and loss of inhibitory control of the desire to continue the substance abuse. Social workers are vital in supporting these parents with knowledge and skills. The goal of this study was to understand the challenges faced by parents of adolescents recovering from SUD in treatment centres in the Tshwane region, Gauteng province, South Africa. The research study adopted a qualitative research approach and the Intervention Design and Development (IDD) model with purposive sampling to select participants. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. Ethical considerations were adhered to. Findings highlight that holistic support is needed for parents to cope with adolescents recovering from SUD and to support the recovery of their adolescents.