Qualitative Outcomes of an Occupation-Based Theatre Intervention for Substance Use Disorders

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of substance use disorders (SUD) among military veterans is higher than the general population at approximately 11 percent and continues to rise despite ongoing efforts to improve SUD treatment. Purpose: This study reports the potential mechanisms of change that may have contributed to increased drug abstinence and improved social and occupational participation during and after a six-week occupation-based theatre intervention for SUD. Method: Thematic analysis was used to explore themes of participants’ experiences collected via focus groups. This analysis was conducted in the context of findings from the larger, explanatory sequential mixed methods feasibility and acceptability study of which this study is a part. Findings: Data suggested that the interdependent and immersive nature of theatre contributed to participant perseverance leading to changed attitudes, new behaviors, and new internal experiences. Implications: Engaging in an occupation-based theatre intervention during SUD recovery may bolster recovery outcomes. More research is needed.