Meaningful and daily activities of people who are dependent on alcohol and drugs: perspectives from occupational therapy

Abstract

Introduction  Drug consumption is an ancient practice and has currently become a public health issue. Based on the knowledge core of occupational therapy, it is believed that individuals have the need to engage in meaningful activities that give purpose to their lives. In this perspective, it is questioned whether problematic alcohol and drug use influences the performance of these meaningful activities and the daily lives of people who use drugs.

Objective  To understand, from the perspective of people with problematic alcohol and drug use, whether substance consumption influences the performance of meaningful activities and their daily lives.

Method  Four individuals undergoing treatment at a Psychosocial Care Center for Alcohol and Drugs (CAPS AD) participated in the study. Data were collected through the Photovoice method and analyzed using thematic content analysis techniques.

Results  The analysis categories discuss the meanings attributed to meaningful activities and daily life, and the influence of problematic alcohol and drug use on the performance/reorganization of these activities. Overall, participants reported that meaningful activities are related to creating purpose and achieving life goals, while daily life was associated with performing everyday tasks.

Conclusion  The perspectives of occupational therapy are focused on the performance of meaningful activities and the reorganization of daily life in order to promote social reintegration and improve the quality of life of individuals.

Keywords:
Occupational Therapy; Activities of Daily Living; Substance-Related Disorders