A Nationwide Study of Norwegian Drug Abusers in Treatment: Methods and findings

Abstract

The National Institute for Alcohol and Drug Research (SIFA) has completed the first nationwide survey of drug abusers in treatment in Norway. Experiences from the study have contributed to the creation and initial implementation of a monitoring system for treatment demands and treatment measures in the country. This article presents the approach and methods used in the SIFA study. It provides an overview of the material and focusses on describing clients from long-term residential and outpatient treatment modalities. The results are presented within seven areas: socio-demographics, substance abuse, mental health and significant problems, risk behaviour, social functioning, social network, and biographical data on childhood/adolescence. These areas are analysed by the variables of gender, age, urban Oslo/outside Oslo clients, and client populations from residential/outpatient treatment. The authors reflect upon the prospects opened by such comprehensive documentation concerning preventive strategies, planning of treatment, and further research in Norway.