Prevention and Treatment of Substance Use Disorders in Refugees: The PREPARE Network

Refugee populations are particularly vulnerable to substance use disorders. At the same time, they are less likely to be reached by substance abuse services. Strategies for the adequate provision of such services and interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders tailored to the needs of refugee populations are therefore urgently needed. Methods: In four closely linked projects, the PREPARE network uses a spectrum of methodological approaches including systematic rapid assessments, which combine multiple indicators and data sources, qualitative studies and intervention trials in the fields of prevention and therapy. Results: The consortium aims at providing systematic evidence on substance use problems among refugees, identifying principles and strategies of good practice for providing addiction care for this group, improving the assessment of substance use problems among refugees, and evaluating innovative interventions for indicated prevention of substance use disorders among refugees and integrative treatment for traumatized refugees with substance abuse. Finally, we will implement a national web-based resource centre at the German Centre for Addiction Issues (DHS). Conclusion: Refugees with substance-related disorders have special needs in terms of access to addiction services and the type of help they receive. The PREPARE network is intended to contribute to better care for this particularly vulnerable group.