Brescia Psychology Undergraduate Honours Theses

Date of Award

Spring 4-6-2017

Program

Psychology

Supervisor

Dr. Riley Hinson

Abstract

Methamphetamine withdrawal has been labelled one of the most challenging withdrawal syndromes by service providers. Limited research has explored methamphetamine withdrawal causing service providers to develop their own strategies and adapt policies and procedures according to client needs. The purpose of this study was to understand and address the unique challenges of methamphetamine withdrawal from the perspective of client and staff experiences. Thirty-four semi-structured interviews were conducted with Withdrawal Management staff and clients in London, Ontario in order to identify common themes. Five themes emerged related to providing methamphetamine users with effective support while trying to maintain the safety and comfort of other clients undergoing detoxification: individualized support, staged integration, education, utilizing a two-tiered approach, and resource and team collaboration. These themes are discussed in relation to the process of detoxification, current challenges, and future directions for detoxification services.

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