Experiences of Sustainable Abstinence-Based Recovery: an Exploratory Study of Three Recovery Communities RC in England International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction

Drinking slows reaction times and coordination, and interferes with eye movement and information processing. People who drink even a moderate amount are at higher risk for traffic accidents, possibly resulting in injury or death to themselves and others. (Note that even without alcohol, the sustain from alcohol risk of a car accident goes up starting at age 55.) Also, older drivers tend to be more seriously hurt in crashes than younger drivers. When you stop drinking, it can also reverse the negative effects alcohol has had on your cognitive functions like problem-solving, memory, and attention.

These conceptualizations of recovery, including that of the authors, differ from the Betty Ford Institute Consensus Panel, which requires abstinence. Similarities across definitions of recovery shown in Table 1 indicate that alcohol recovery is a process that is dynamic and focuses on improvement of health and wellness. Definitions differ with respect to the inclusion of language pertaining to abstinence or changes and improvement in biopsychosocial functioning and purpose in life. The discussion begins with an overview of the major diagnostic systems developed by the American Psychiatric Association in DSM-5 and the World Health Organization International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) and the definitions of AUD and remission based on those systems. Historical definitions of recovery are then reviewed as defined by the Temperance Movement, early medical literature, the “Big Book” of Alcoholics Anonymous,7 and the early behavior therapy movement.

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These findings are consistent with other studies that highlight the important role of peers and social networks within the recovery process (Timpson et al. 2016). Such support is pivotal in helping those in recovery to manage their addiction(s) and maintain abstinence (Litt et al. 2009; Stevens et al. 2010). It also provides emotional and practical support (Neale 2001; Neale and Stevenson 2015) and enables individuals to belong to a group, thus fostering social identity (Best et al. 2010; Buckingham et al. 2013; Pagano et al. 2013). Examples of tactics to facilitate this goal include building and strengthening social and community ties, increasing physical activity, and increasing non–substance reinforcement and activities that do not require alcohol use.

If you look out a longer time, people who drink are six times more likely to have a cardiovascular event within a week compared to people who don’t drink. The American Society of Clinical Oncology adds that limiting or quitting alcohol while you’re having cancer treatment may help you avoid complications. This includes cancer recurrence or the development of secondary primary tumors (SPTs). Excessive drinking can lead to the build-up of toxic, highly cancer-causing (carcinogenic) compounds that contribute to inflammation in your body, especially in your liver. As alcohol is broken down and metabolized by your body, toxins get released. Some will eventually get broken down into less harmful compounds, but your body’s ability to process these substances is limited.

SEVERE OR COMPLICATED SYMPTOMS (CIWA-AR SCORE OF 19 OR MORE)

This study utilised interviews and focus groups (FG) with RC members and key service stakeholders between April and July 2015. To find alcohol treatment for yourself or a loved one, visit the NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator. In older adults, especially, too much alcohol can lead to balance problems and falls, which can result in hip or arm fractures and other injuries. Older people have thinner bones than younger people, so their bones break more easily.

The social effects of alcoholism on youth are some of the most prevalent. Many colleges now focus on highlighting and educating their students about the dangers of heavy drinking. Some even have their rehab programs to help guide students back on to a better path.