Substance Abuse, Psychoeducational Groups
1
HOW
Theories
WHEn
Substance Abuse
Psychoeducational Groups
Kennedy Murray
Group Behavioural Counselling
COURSE CODE
Deborah Vincent
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a major public health concern that affects individuals all over the world. It is said to be defined as “The use of illegal drugs or the use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs or alcohol for purposes other than those for which they are meant to be used, or in excessive amounts.” (National Cancer Institute, n.d). Substance abuse is a difficult addiction to manage on by oneself and requires comprehensive approaches to treatment; one of the most effective treatment approaches for substance abuse is psychoeducational group therapy.
History
History of Psychoeducational Group Therapy
“Psychoeducation provides people with mental health conditions information about the causes, symptoms, prognosis and treatments of their diagnosed conditions.” (Betterhelp, 2023).
This concept comes from the National Training Laboratories in Group Development after conducting research on group dynamics. Psychoeducation is now a standard part of treatment that benefits all mental health disorders.
In the early 1960s studies were conducted on substance abuse and the effects of psychoeducational group therapy, since then the studies have continued to be conducted and further demonstrates its effectiveness in the treatment of substance abuse. (Cuijpers et al., 2008)
Effectiveness of Psychoeducational Group Therapy
Effectiness
Group therapy provides individuals with opportunities to network with others, reduce anxiety, and learn skills/strategies to better understand their experiences and while being provided with supports through the process.
Psychoeducational group therapy has been found to be more effective than an individual process or dual counselling. According to a meta-analysis of 23 studies; they found that group therapy was significantly more effective than individual therapy in reducing substance use. (Cuijpers, et al.,2008).
It has been known to effectively educate participants on substance abuse, its effects, related behaviours, and their consequences. A study involving 90 participants who had recently received substance use disorder treatment found that only 10-sessions in a psychoeducation program improved participants’ relapse rate, social functioning, wellness and stress levels. (The Human Condition, 2023)
Theories Supporting Psychoeducational Group Therapy
Many theories support the effectiveness of psychoeducational group therapy for substance abuse. The social learning theory suggests that individuals learn through their peers and can adopt healthier behaviours due to observation and modelling. (Bandura, 1977).
The cognitive-behavioural theory suggests that substance use is a learned behaviour that can be modified through cognitive restructuring and behavioral interventions (Beck, et al., 1993). Finally, the self-help model emphasizes the importance of peer support in the recovery process. (Humphreys & Moos, 2001).
Principles of Psychoeducational Group Therapy
Psychoeducational group therapy is based on several principles, including the importance of social support, the provision of education, and the use of behavioral interventions.
The group provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and learn from others. Education on the effects of substance abuse and coping skills is also provided.
Finally, behavioral interventions, such as contingency management and relapse prevention, are used to help individuals modify their behavior and maintain abstinence (McKay et al., 2004).