Marham Medium-Term Residential Treatment Center (Camp)
The Marham Center for Women’s Addiction Treatment was established in October 2012 (Mehr 1391) in Tehran’s Shahrak Esteghlal neighborhood, Tehransar, through a partnership with the Social and Cultural Affairs Department of Tehran Municipality, District 21.
June 2019 Update
The Marham Center was renovated and equipped by District 21 Municipality and, through a memorandum of understanding, entrusted to Simaye Sabz Rahayi Harm Reduction Institute. The center operates under the license of the Tehran Province Welfare Organization and admits women with substance use disorders. Some patients are referred by the judiciary system, particularly homeless and unaccompanied women, who are admitted and treated through charitable and collaborative efforts. After completing their treatment, they are referred to the “Aman” Halfway House for empowerment and reintegration into society.
Key Services and Activities:
– Admission
Upon arrival, each client receives a personal file. All clients undergo three routine tests using diagnostic kits: pregnancy, morphine, and methamphetamine.
– Screening
Clients are screened for infectious diseases, mental health conditions, and hygiene, including scalp and body cleanliness, clothing, and presence of lice, bedbugs, ticks, fungal infections, and skin conditions.
– Detoxification
Clients spend 7 to 10 days in the detox unit, isolated from the main dormitory, to manage withdrawal symptoms in a safe and monitored environment.
– Patient Dormitory
After detox, clients enter the dormitory and begin group living without substance use, fostering peer support and recovery.
– Medical Care
A psychologist and physician are present daily to provide treatment and update client records.
– Education
Education is a core component of recovery. Training helps stabilize recovery and includes:
– Self-help and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) sessions
– Psychology classes
– HIV/AIDS prevention
– Life skills training
– Addiction Counseling
University-trained addiction counselors conduct group sessions and individual consultations to help clients understand the causes and triggers of relapse.
– Family Counseling
Weekly family counseling sessions led by addiction specialists educate families about addiction and provide guidance to support the client’s reintegration after discharge.
– Sports and Physical Activity
Daily individual and group exercise programs are tailored to each client’s physical and mental condition, promoting relaxation and vitality.
– Nutrition
Meal plans are designed to be both enjoyable and physiologically appropriate for clients’ recovery needs.
– Recreational Activities
Daily recreational programs include group games, film screenings, dance, music, and reading.
– Social Work and Follow-Up
The center’s social work unit follows up on clients’ recovery after discharge and helps secure housing for homeless clients.