A Dramatic Case Report: Achived Remission in Metamphetamine Addiction After Changing City, Yet Ended Up in Prison
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61841/hktts179Keywords:
Substance-Related Disorder, Criminal Behavior, Biopsychosocial Model, Social SupportAbstract
Introduction: Addiction is often viewed as a brain disease, focusing on the individual's body or brain and describing it as a disordered state. However, this perspective overlooks the significant role of social contexts and how consumption patterns evolve. Substance use disorders should be addressed with a biopsychosocial model, considering environmental impacts on addiction development and treatment. Research shows that changes in the environment can alter substance use behaviors. Additionally, substance use is linked to criminal activities, as drugs can influence thoughts and behaviors leading to crime. Case Presentation: This report details a patient with methamphetamine use disorder who was on probation for theft during his substance use p eriod. Despite multiple hospitalizations and treatments, he relapsed each time he returned to his previous environment. However, he achieved remission after moving to a stable, developed area with family support. Unfortunately, he was later imprisoned for his p rior offense during this remission period. Conclusions This case underscores the critical impact of the living environment on substance use behaviors. The patient's remission after relocating from a socially disadvantaged area highlights the importance of environmental factors in addiction treatment. While his imprisonment is unfortunate, the positive changes during his stay with his sister and his abstinence from substance use are promising for his future recovery. Effective treatment for methamphetamine addiction must consider and integrate environmental factors into treatment strategies.
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