Mediating role of self-efficacy between motivation to change and quality of life in the relapse cycle

Objective Relapse remains a significant challenge in the recovery from substance use disorders, often reversing the progress achieved during treatment. This study investigates the mediating role of self-efficacy between motivation to change and quality of life,focusing on individuals completing addiction treatment in rehabilitation facilities.Methods Data were collected from 430 participants aged 16–70 years, who were undergoing or had completed treatment at various rehabilitation centers. The study used multivariate logistic regressionanalysis to examine the relationships between self-efficacy, motivation to change, quality oflife, and the impact on relapse outcomes.Results Higher levels of self-efficacy were found to enhance motivation to change significantly (OR = 3.674,95% CI = 0.365–36.905) and improve quality of life (OR = 0.988, 95% CI = 0.278–3.513), reducing the risk of relapse. Participants with stronger self-efficacy demonstrated greater resilience against cravings, particularly during the initial months of recovery, suggesting that self-efficacy is a key factor in sustained abstinence.Conclusions The findings underscore the importance of incorporating self-efficacy strategies within treatment programs to support abstinence and promote long-termquality of life. Promotion of self-efficacy could serve as a key driver of sustainedchange, reducing relapse rates after completion of formal treatment.