Systematic Review: Coping Strategies Among Individuals with Drug Addiction

Abstract

Drug addiction is a major global public health problem characterised by the compulsive use of drugs despite their harmful effects on various health dimensions. This systematic review examines the coping strategies used by individuals struggling with drug addiction and evaluates their effectiveness on the road to recovery. A comprehensive literature search of academic databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar identified 20 relevant studies published between 1990 and 2023. These studies were analysed to classify coping strategies into adaptive and maladaptive categories. The review highlights the importance of promoting adaptive coping strategies and addressing maladaptive behaviours in therapeutic interventions. Comprehensive treatment plans involving multiple adaptation strategies are recommended for long-term recovery. Future research should focus on identifying the most effective combinations of coping strategies and integrating them into drug addiction treatment programs.