The journey of young adults who have experienced drug addiction : a social worker’s perspective

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on exploring the experiences of social workers engaged with young adults with a substance abuse problem in the current changing Maltese context, specifically in relation to drugs. It aims to develop an understanding of how social workers engage with young adults who exhibit addictive behaviour, explore the challenges and barriers they face during their recovery, shed light on the stigma they experience and raise awareness about how difficult addiction truly is. A qualitative approach is adopted with data being gathered through semi-structured interviews conducted with five professionals, all social workers, who work in the addictions field. The researcher set out to understand how these professionals engage with addiction clients, exploring interventions for relapse and recovery. The research conducted shows that social workers employ diverse strategies, emphasising meeting clients where they are in their journey and navigating both voluntary and compulsory engagement. Social workers create a safe, supportive environment through person-centred approaches, collaboration with mental health services, and individualised care plans. Despite challenges like stigma and housing instability, practitioners prioritise holistic recovery, employing coping strategies and support networks to prevent relapse. Continuous learning, self-care, and ethical considerations are crucial for effective addiction treatment, highlighting the importance of client autonomy and cultural competence.