Substance use recovery and social recovery capital among refugees (2023-2027)
Although little is known about the prevalence of substance use among refugees in Europe, studies point out that it increases over time after arrival in the EU. The EU Asylum agency (EUAA) recently reported that drug-related incidents are an increasing concern in asylum settings across Europe. Yet, evidence-based interventions targeting these populations are scarce and leading substance use recovery theories did not yet study recovery among refugees. Moreover, refugee voices remain unaccounted for in recovery capital research.
Considering that social capital is jeopardized among refugees while key in the recovery process, the objectives of this project are to identify and understand (1) the influence of post-migration factors on social recovery capital, (2) social capital external to the individual, (3) bounding and bridging social capital and (4) experiences with, barriers and facilitators in substance use interventions. Five case studies will be conducted in 5 reception centres in Flanders and 100 interviews with refugees will be conducted.
This is the first European study that focuses on the nature and influence of post-migration factors on social recovery capital, substance use and recovery among refugees, based on empirical data collection in the target group. This research will advance recovery capital theory and interventions by expanding the notions of bonding and bridging social recovery capital and by identifying social capital external to the individual.
INFORMATION SHEET: Mental health, substance use and resilience in people with a refugee background (DRUMI)
DRUMI?
In the DRUMI project we study mental health, substance use and recovery capital during the migration process among adults with a refugee background in Ghent and Brussels. By listening to your experiences, we can help improve the support available. DRUMI is funded by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO) and the study design has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Law and Criminology.
A CONVERSATION?
By conducting interviews with people with a refugee background, we are identifying the factors that influence mental health and substance use. The interview lasts 1 to 2 hours and covers your migration story, mental health and substance use. We will record the interview with your consent for transcription and analysis purposes only. Your participation is voluntary, and you may skip questions or stop at any time without any consequences. As a reward, you will receive a €15 supermarket voucher. The interview will take place wherever you wish, preferably in a quiet location.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP?
Anyone with a refugee background and experience of substance use is eligible, regardless of your residence status. This applies to those awaiting the procedure, those without status, and recognised refugees. Your participation will have no impact whatsoever on your residence procedure. By taking part in the study, you are helping to improve support for refugees. The interview may cause a brief emotional strain. If you have any questions, the researcher will be happy to refer you to the appropriate help or support. If you wish, we will keep you informed of the results.
ANONYMITY
Your participation is completely anonymous and there is no link to your identity. Only the research team (researcher and supervisor) have access to the raw data. The audio files will be destroyed after transcription, and the retention period for the transcript is 5 years. The legal basis for processing this data is your consent, which you may withdraw. You have the right to access or delete data and may lodge complaints with the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Law & Criminology. The processing of your data complies with the GDPR: this means that your privacy is optimally protected. This academic research has no influence whatsoever on your residence procedure. The transcripts will only be used in the context of the research objectives described above.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW MORE? WOULD YOU LIKE TO PARTICIPATE?
Please contact: Charlotte De Kock, PhD, visiting professor in criminology
Insitute for Social Drug Research (ISD) - Ghent University
Universiteitsstraat 4, 9000 Gent
Tel.: +329 264 6723
E-mail: Charlotte.DeKock[at]UGent.be