What is the primary objective of tertiary prevention in substance use treatment?

The primary objective of tertiary prevention in substance use treatment focuses on stopping the progressive damage caused by drug use. This stage of prevention is concerned with individuals who are already engaged in substance use and are experiencing its negative consequences. The aim is to reduce the impact of drug dependence on the individual’s life and to prevent further harm, both physically and psychologically.

Tertiary prevention involves treatment and rehabilitation strategies that help individuals manage their substance use disorders and facilitate recovery. This can include therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and various support services that aim to stabilize the person's condition and improve their quality of life. By addressing the existing issues related to substance use, this level of prevention assists individuals in avoiding relapses and minimizes the potential for further damage from drug-related activities.

The other options, while relevant to different aspects of substance use prevention and treatment, do not align with the primary aim of tertiary prevention. Community-based education and promoting abstinence primarily fall under primary and secondary prevention strategies, which focus on preventing substance use before it starts or identifying and addressing problems before they become severe. Recreational activities for recovering individuals would typically be part of a broader strategy to support recovery and engagement but do not define the main goal of tertiary prevention.