Life after the rehab

The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) has published last week a new 'insights' study on the social reintegration of drug users. Since the 90s the new, better policies that promote treatment increased the chances of overcoming a drug addiction, but the study shows that more needs to be done with regards to social reintegration and, specifically, employment of ex-drug users. Without improved social reintegration policies the long-term success of treatments is endangered, e.g., over half of drug users entering treatment is unemployed. The report includes 'conclusions for practice and policy' which could be used by policymakers in developing new, European strategies to promote social reintegration of drug users.

Photo by Rotorhead

EMCDDA Director Wolfgang Götz says: ‘Drug use often exacerbates the already difficult life conditions of excluded individuals, making integration efforts a real challenge for the person concerned and for those providing support. This aspect is particularly relevant during the current period of economic difficulties in Europe, with high levels of unemployment among young European citizens’. (Neglecting the social needs of drug users can undermine chances of long-term recovery)