The Role of Acceptance of Aversive Experiences and Perceived Social Support on the Probability of Relapse Among Patients With Substance Use Disorders.

Background: Substance use disorders are prevalent and pose significant challenges to successful treatment outcomes, with high rates of relapse being a major obstacle. Perceived social support and acceptance of aversive experiences have been identified as potential factors influencing relapse outcomes among patients with substance use disorders. However, their combined influence and mediating effects remain less explored in the literature.

Aim: Examine the role of acceptance of aversive experiences and perceived social support on the probability of relapse among patients with substance use disorders.

Design and methods: A descriptive correlational study was conducted on 200 patients with substance use disorders who were recruited to complete the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Advance WArning of RElapse Questionnaire.

Results: The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between acceptance of aversive experiences and social support. Additionally, a significant negative correlation was observed between the probability of relapse and acceptance of aversive experiences, as well as between the probability of relapse and total social support. Most patients exhibited a high level of acceptance of aversive experiences, and a substantial proportion had a low probability of relapse. The study also identified that all variables, except perceived social support from friends and essential people, significantly predicted the probability of relapse.

Conclusion: The study emphasises the significant roles of acceptance of aversive experiences and perceived social support in reducing the likelihood of relapse among patients with substance use disorders. It suggests that incorporating acceptance-based coping strategies and strengthening social support networks can enhance treatment outcomes and prevent relapse. These findings have important implications for the training and education of psychiatric nurses involved in the treatment of patients with substance use disorders.