Stigmatization and perceived social support as predictor of treatment of substance use disorder (SUD): a systematic review

Abstract

Objective: To review literature on the impact of stigmatisation and perceived social support on the treatment of substance use disorder patients. Methods: The systematic review was conducted from March 2020 to June 2021, and comprised literature search through key words on PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Science Direct, Full Free PDF, and Google Scholar databases of studies about stigma, social support and treatment of substance use disorders published in English language between 2010 and 2021. Results: Of the 52 studies found, 8(15.3%) qualified for detailed review. The outcome suggested that the impact of stigma had negative consequences on the treatment of substance use disorders, and negative comments from close relatives was a major cause of relapse. In contrast, perceived social support had a constructive impact on the treatment of substance use disorders. Conclusion: Further research is required to understand the phenomenon of stigmatisation in the Pakistani population through validated tools. Key Words: Stigmatisation, Perceived social support, Treatment, Relapse, SUD.