Before the rehabilitation period, the client has been in a setting that has encouraged substance abuse. The objective of substance-abuse rehabilitation is to encourage the client to see the possibility of a substance-free life.

A new kind of engagement and a change in lifestyle are facilitated by learning new modes of behaviour as well as by participating in a rehabilitation programme.

To change permanently, clients must recognise their life situation and responsibilities, and plan for themselves new modes of behaviour. The clients’ dignity is enhanced when they are held responsible for their choices, plans and behaviour.

At the beginning of the rehabilitation period, clear cause-and-effect relationships and authorities are needed to learn and to plan new modes of behaviour. The learning of a new lifestyle is supported through a warm and caring atmosphere and a community-based rehabilitation method

In community-based rehabilitation, the learning of a new lifestyle and the recognition of opportunities for change take place through model learning and the taking of responsibility.

In community-based rehabilitation, peer support is utilised as a key resource.

As the rehabilitation period proceeds, the client’s ability to bear responsibility and act responsibly increases. Clients’ bearing of responsibility and the management of their own lives is enhanced by increasing clients’ responsibilities in the community, so that clients learn to trust themselves and their own resources.

Engagement with life depends on you!