Human trafficking is a profound violation of human rights that often leads to severe psychological and physical health consequences. Among these, substance use disorder (SUD) stands out as a pervasive challenge, as substance use recovery survivors frequently utilize substances to cope with extreme trauma or are coerced into use by traffickers. A recent scoping review conducted by Dell and colleagues systematically examined current research on treatment, harm reduction, and recovery support services specifically for this vulnerable population.

Research Findings for Substance Use Recovery Survivors

The review identified only six studies published between 2010 and 2025 that met the inclusion criteria. This limited evidence base suggests that the medical community currently lacks a robust understanding of which interventions work best for survivors. Specifically, the studies highlighted two main types of programs. Some interventions operated within specialty courts in the United States, targeting trafficked youth. Meanwhile, other programs in Israel and the U.S. utilized multimodal approaches, integrating housing, basic needs, and health services through non-profit or community-based organizations. Furthermore, the outcomes measured in these studies varied widely, often relying on self-reported frequency of use or case manager ratings rather than standardized clinical assessments.

Clinical Implications and Recommendations

For healthcare providers in India, these findings underscore the necessity of a comprehensive, trauma-informed approach. Because survivors often present with complex needs, clinicians must prioritize stability and safety alongside addiction treatment. Moreover, there is an urgent need to adapt evidence-based psychosocial interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), to the specific context of trafficking. Additionally, integrating harm reduction strategies can provide a non-judgmental entry point for survivors who are not yet ready for total abstinence. Ultimately, improving the quality of recovery services requires the implementation of standardized assessment tools to track progress and identify specific barriers to care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is substance use so common among trafficking survivors?

Survivors may use substances as a survival mechanism to numb physical or emotional pain. Additionally, traffickers often use drugs as a tool for coercion, creating a cycle of dependency to maintain control over the victim.

What are the primary barriers to treatment for this group?

Common barriers include a lack of specialized trauma-informed facilities, the prioritization of immediate needs like housing and safety, and the intense stigma associated with both trafficking and addiction. Furthermore, many survivors fear legal repercussions when seeking medical help.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. Dell NA et al. Interventions to Support Substance Use Recovery Among Human Trafficking Survivors: A Scoping Review. J Evid Based Soc Work (2019). 2026 May 31. doi: 10.1080/26408066.2026.2680234. PMID: 42218621.


2. RAND Corporation. Sex Trafficking and Substance Use: Identifying High-Priority Needs Within the Criminal Justice System. 2022. Available at rand.org.


3. Koegler E et al. Service providers' perspectives on substance use and treatment needs among human trafficking survivors. J Subst Abuse Treat. 2022 Oct;143:108897. doi: 10.1016/j.jsat.2022.108897.