The Experiences Of Former Injection Drug Users in Palembang City, Indonesia: A Phenomenology Study

Abstract

Background: Injection drug users have a high risk of various health problems, both physical and psychological, including HIV/AIDS infection. Problems experienced by this group do not only affect the members, but also the surrounding community. This study explored the experiences of former injection drug users in Palembang City of Indonesia. Method: The study employed a descriptive phenomenological qualitative design. The participants were recruited using the purposive sampling technique. Research data were collected using open-ended questions and field notes. The interview guidelines were prepared based on the research objectives. They were further translated into a number of questions to explore the experiences of former injection drug users. The collected research data were transcribed and analyzed by using Colaizzi method (1978). Results: This study identified nine experience themes, which are: the first reason of using drugs, reasons of continuing drug use, personal responses, parent responses, the values, bad impacts, meanings when using drugs, meaning after recovery, support from related parties. Conclusion and Recomendation: Injection drug abuse is a habit that must be immediately prevented and overcome. It is suggested that the Government should conduct prevention efforts and eradicate drug abuse by involving the society.