A qualitative study the challenges ex-heroin users face when on a methadone maintenance program

Abstract

This qualitative study attempts to gain an in-depth understanding of the daily stressors of the individuals on this maintenance program. Data was obtained through an in-depth interview following Wengraf's Single Question aimed at inducing Narrative (SQUIN) interview that aimed at eliciting the cultural, societal and personal dynamics experienced by six participants. The emergent themes were analyzed using grounded theory techniques (constant comparative method). The study's findings highlight that all the participants experience daily challenges when having methadone on a maintenance level rather than as a substitution therapy for detoxification. Results show that there exist various factors that contribute to challenging situations like employment, social inclusion, risky situations. Exploring these challenging situations has generated more awareness of the daily lifestyle the ex-heroin users have when being on a methadone maintenance program.