Experiences of residents in a therapeutic community model of substance use disorder treatment in a mental hospital in Ghana.

Background: In Ghana, the use of illegal drugs and alcohol has been classified as endemic. To manage this menace, the Therapeutic Community model for Substance Use Disorders (SUD) was introduced in Ghana about a decade ago as an alternative to other existing strategies. However, the effectiveness of this treatment modality for substance use disorders in Pantang Mental Hospital and Accra Psychiatric Hospital has not been scientifically studied.

Objective: This study, therefore, sought to explore the experiences of substance users or residents enrolled in the Therapeutic Community programme toward recovery from substance use disorders.

Method: This research employed an explorative-descriptive design. Participants (N = 20) were enrolled purposively sampled and recruited into the study. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide and data were analyzed using Colaizzi's descriptive phenomenology data analysis process.

Results: Two main themes emerged from the data: "Why I stayed" (Motivation), and "All things are new" (Life transformation). The study pointed out that residents or participants mainly expressed positive experiences in the programme, including experiencing a sense of belongingness, enhanced self-esteem/self-worth, and most importantly, developing hope of a life free of addiction.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the study found that participants in the Therapeutic Community (TC) program generally had positive experiences and believed in its effectiveness for recovery. Factors such as a relaxed environment, supportive staff, and interactions with other residents contributed to their positive experience. The study discovered that motivation, a conducive environment for care, structured program activities, and relationships among residents were key factors that motivated participants to stay and actively participate in the therapeutic community program. These factors fostered hope and a sense of belonging, ultimately contributing to their recovery journey. However, participants expressed the need for self-actualization, which they hoped to achieve after completing the program and reintegrating into the community.