Risk Factors that Contribute to Alcohol Use Relapse among Individuals Re-admitted in Rehabilitation Centers in Kenya

Caroline Kabura Kimani, PhD Candidate in Clinical Psychology; Stella Kemuma Nyagwencha, Ph.D; & Josephine Nyaboke Arasa, Ph.D., United States International University - Africa.

Relapse is a major challenge following the treatment of alcohol-related disorders, especially after individuals complete the inpatient treatment programs. In Kenya, studies indicate that relapse rates among those who have been rehabilitated range between 20-80% after they are reunited with their families. The objective of the study was to establish the risk factors for relapse among individuals with problematic alcohol use readmitted in selected rehabilitation centers in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties. These selected rehabilitation centers identified in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties were those that were licensed by NACADA. A descriptive correlational research study design was adopted. Purposive, and snowball sampling methods were used to select 100 participants. Data collection was through a researcher developed socio demographic questionnaire (SDQ) and the Alcohol Use Disorder Inventory Test (AUDIT) and analyzed using SPSS V.25. The key findings of the study identified unrealistic beliefs, boredom and the type of alcohol consumed as risk factors for relapse. The study recommends that the government regulate the consumption of beer and beer products on a policy level. Further, rehabilitation centers should come up with programs targeting cognitive restructuring and soft skills including time management, to address boredom and change the beliefs of individuals with problematic alcohol use.

Keywords: Problematic alcohol use, relapse, risk factors