This model both accelerated the spread of AA and NA and helped establish the abstinence-focused 12-Step program at the core of mainstream addiction treatment. By 1989, treatment center referrals accounted for 40% of new AA memberships (Mäkelä et al., 1996). This standard persisted in SUD treatment even as strong evidence emerged that a minority of individuals who receive 12-Step treatment https://ecosoberhouse.com/what-are-sober-living-houses/ achieve and maintain long-term abstinence (e.g., Project MATCH Research Group, 1998). This study sought to extend this previous research using a nationally representative sample capturing the continuum of substance use statuses, incorporating all substances used (i.e., alcohol and/or other drugs), with consideration given to the AOD that individuals indicated as their primary substance.
Diet, Chronic Pain and Addiction
Lastly, you can join moderated alcohol support groups to get encouragement and gain accountability in a non-judgmental and secure forum. Understanding how external factors will support or impede your success can help you determine if moderation is something that feels achievable within your current lifestyle and circumstances, or if sobriety is a more realistic goal. It’s also important to know that you can change certain circumstances, and therapy can aid in helping you set boundaries that empower your progress. These answers will vary from individual to individual, and your choice of moderation vs. abstinence is a personal one.
Building a Relapse Prevention Plan
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and your path to a healthier, more fulfilling life may involve a combination of approaches or even a change in strategy over time. With commitment, perseverance, and the right support, you can overcome the challenges of addiction and build a brighter future. Traditionally, controlled drinking vs abstinence most of the alcohol and substance use treatment centers in the United States have focused on abstinence-based approaches, many of which follow a 12-step model. This states that addiction is a progressive disease that can only be managed by stopping the use of all substances and maintaining abstinence, full stop.
Anxiety Attacks and Addiction
Taking the time to focus on yourself and your mental health is essential for successful recovery. Exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety, while rest can help to restore energy and focus. Seeking therapy or counseling can provide a safe space to process emotions and gain insight into your triggers. Manage emotional triggers during recovery by exercising, resting, seeking therapy or counseling, meditating, and spending time with positive people – these activities can help you feel more in control and support. Choosing non-alcoholic alternatives can help individuals in recovery avoid the temptation of alcohol while still enjoying social occasions. Cocktails and non-alcoholic spirits are delicious and refreshing options, allowing individuals to participate in social events without compromising their sobriety.
- In the 1970s, the pioneering work of a small number of alcohol researchers began to challenge the existing abstinence-based paradigm in AUD treatment research.
- Advocates of nonabstinence approaches often point to indirect evidence, including research examining reasons people with SUD do and do not enter treatment.
- Abstinence means giving up alcohol completely, and it’s the foundation of traditional treatment options like AA and most inpatient rehabs.
Abuse as a Cause for Addiction
2. Established treatment models compatible with nonabstinence goals
- However, if you find yourself struggling with regulating how much alcohol you drink in a day or week, an abstinence-based approach may be necessary for changing your drinking habits.
- Recognizing the need for personalized treatment plans is crucial to achieving lasting recovery and cultivating a healthier, more fulfilling life.
- One possibility is that people will think about a goal conflict as involving completely incompatible activities.
- For example, offering nonabstinence treatment may provide a clearer path forward for those who are ambivalent about or unable to achieve abstinence, while such individuals would be more likely to drop out of abstinence-focused treatment.
- For those struggling with alcohol addiction or considering returning to drinking after sobriety, seeking professional help is highly recommended.
- The relationships between substance use status and indices of well-being are reported in Table 3.
The Benefits of a Sober Life
Anxiety and Addiction
- This is especially true if you suffer from specific health conditions or are cutting back to avoid increased risk of specific health consequences.
- Many treatment facilities and support groups aim to help individuals achieve and maintain long-term sobriety through abstinence.
- Treatment professionals can advise if supervised detox is required, and provide next steps tailored to your needs.