Therapeutic Community Program for Opioid-Dependent Treatment Seekers

Background: Therapeutic community program (TCP) is available for opioid users in Iran (Persia), the most populous Persian Gulf country. TCP can reduce opioid use and some associated harms. However, there are few studies about TCP in Iran. Objectives: The current qualitative study aimed to explore the self-perceived positive and negative aspects of TCP among a group of Persian opioid users in Tehran. Methods: The studywasconducted at a large men-onlyTCcenter betweenDecember2010andJuly 2011. Overall, 50opioid users were interviewed in eight roundtable meetings. Nine key informants were individually interviewed. NVivo 10 was used to thematically analyze the data. Results: The mean age of the participantswas 38 (SD = 9) years. Participants were dependent on opioids. The thematic data analyses indicated that peer support, group meetings, and the lack of medications were the most frequently self-perceived positive aspects of TCP. Untreated withdrawal symptoms, long duration of residence, anxiety, and depression were the most frequently reported negative aspects of TCP. Conclusions: The identified positive treatment aspects should be considered to improve the TCP quality. The identified negative treatment aspects should be managed in the provision of TCP.