Community-based Drug Recovery Support in the Phiippines: Implementing Katatagan Kontra droga sa Komunidad

• Main Authors: Hechanova, Ma. Regina M, Teng-Calleja, Mendiola, Alianan, Arsenio S, Jr, Melgar, Isabel E, Acosta, Avegale C, Bautista, Violeta V, Padasas, Irene O, Reyes, Jennel Drezza Fe C, Bunagan, Kay
• Format: text
• Published: Archīum Ateneo 2020
• Subjects: Community-based drug rehabilitation; Philippines; mental health; community interventions; Mental and Social Health; Psychology
• Online Access: https://archium.ateneo.edu/psychology-faculty-pubs/372; https://www.pssc.org.ph/product/crime-and-punishment-in-the-philippines/
• Institution: Ateneo De Manila University

This chapter documents the describes the process of developing a community-based drug rehabilitation (CBDR) program for moderate-risk clients. The katatagan Kontra Droga sa Komunidad program consists of 6 modules on recovery skills; 6 modules on life skills and 3 family modules. The program was pilot-tested in Quezon City and results revealed significant decrease in substance dependence symptoms and increase in adaptive coping and psychological wellbeing. It shares the enablers of CBDR including family support; social support; spritual support; community support. It also recounts barriers to CBDR including shame and stigma; limited understanding of drug use; fragmented approach to CBDR; lack of human resources; attitudes towards monitoring and evaluation; language issues; particpant attendance; safety and security; and compliance vs voluntary treatment. Given these; recommendations include taking a holistic approach; incorporating culture in designing interventions; and continuing support through aftercare; resources; coordination; capacity building; citizen engagement; need for interventions for the youth; prevention; policy and media and advocacy.