Narcotics anonymous member's lived experiences of factors influencing drug withdrawal stability

Drug use has many psychological and behavioral consequences. The elimination of psychological dependence on drugs is much more difficult than that of physical dependence and it requires the passage of time and different stages, and internal care. The purpose of this study was the identification of factors affecting drug withdrawal stability among Narcotics Anonymous (NA) members. This research was conducted using qualitative methods and focus groups interviews. The statistical population included all members of NA who lived in Isfahan, Iran, in 2011 and at least two years had passed since their drug withdrawal stability. For this purpose, data were collected from 18 NA members using purposive sampling. Data were collected and analyzed using content analysis method in 3 stages of conceptualization, interview, and data analysis. The 2 major themes of "social relations and support received from them" and “individual character and identity" were extracted. The former theme consisted of 2 subcategories of “the quantity and type of relationship” and “social support network”. The later theme included the subcategories of “cognition”, “emotion”, and “dignity”. Instance and themes of each subcategory was explained in detail. The findings indicate that the most effective factor in drug withdrawal stability is receiving cognitive support from sympathizers (other members of the association). This support results in the changing of attitudes and self-awareness. Other factors that have impact on drug withdrawal stability included reforming family relationships, receiving emotional support and support regarding dignity from family members, increasing of confidence, and recovery of social status.